Darjeeling Himalayan Railway registers record earnings

DIMAPUR — The UNESCO World Heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) of the N F Railway has recorded the highest ever earnings and passenger footfalls in its history during the financial year ending December 2023.

According to an official statement, the DHR recorded revenue of nearly INR 17.3 crore, surpassing all previous records. The increased earnings are being attributed to the introduction of more joyride services, huge footfall during the peak tourist season and growth in passenger traffic.

It further mentioned that the Ghum Winter Festival, held from November 25 to December 10, 2023, saw massive turnout from locals and tourists alike, promoting tourism and cultural heritage along the DHR route.

Several initiatives have also been undertaken for the promotion of DHR, it said, adding that to boost tourism, new coaches have been introduced and new services have been launched.

Additionally, the Darjeeling station is undergoing upgrades with new features such as heritage-type windows and a Kanchenjunga viewpoint. The upgrading of Ghum station is also in progress, it said.