DHR land, tracks under illegal encroachment

EOI, Kurseong, 6 January 2014: Darjeeling Himalayan Railway officials are worried with the regular encroachment and occupation of railway land in the hills. They allege DHR land is being illegally used to construct private buildings, schools, playgrounds and other establishments.

Besides, people have also been constructing houses and shops very close to the tracks, leaving just enough space for the toy train to pass. The railways officials fear such activity could be harmful for both the train and the general people.

The officials cited examples of a large portion of railway land and tracks near Kurseong Railway Yard that is being used as a parking space for vehicles. This has disrupted normal movement of the train, while in some instances the trains even have to stop before the tracks are cleared. Such incidents of parking along railway tracks are not only limited to Kurseong town, but has been seen all along the route starting from Siliguri to Darjeeling.

A senior DHR official said a toy train once got derailed in Kakjhora near Darjeeling due to the negligence of locals. The cause of the accident was found to be construction materials thrown on the tracks. He said such practices should be stopped to avoid major mishaps in future. The official urged the people to step forward and help make the DHR successful in its efforts to resume rail services and protect the legacy of the famed toy train.