News

150-Year-Old Matheran-Neral Toy Train Resumes, Offering Scenic Hill Views

The services of the iconic Matheran-Neral mini toy train resumed after a short break in the monsoon season. The train, having a rich history of over 150 years covers around 20 kilometres of journey, offering people a scenic route through the small hill station. Swapnil Nila, the Chief Public Relations Officer (CRPO) of Central Railways said that the train was stopped in June 8th because of the monsoon season and was started on November 6. "This particular train covers a very short distance of 20 kilometres. It has 236 sharp curvature over which passengers can enjoy the ride also, it is primarily a narrow gauge train, it has a history of almost more than 150 years. It reaches Neral to Matheran in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. The CRPO also said the train has six coaches, one first-class coach and four second class coaches. The passengers have various facilities and can buy first class and second class tickets to experience the route in the hilly area, the CRPO said, “The entire distance is covered, passengers have facilities to purchase first class tickets and second class tickets also their prices are also reasonable for journey and unique journey passengers.” The train reportedly transports 600-700 passengers on an average everyday The CRPO further mentioned that the train is loved by school children, offering them a fun experience to travel to the vehicle free Matheran hilly area. "This train gives the actual pleasure of viewing the scenic background of Neral and Matheran to all its passengers," Swapnil Nila added. One of the passengers said that they enjoyed the ride along on the first day of the train too. "I am liking it very much, before I was bored because the train was delayed slightly but then I got the ticket and saw the view while in the train, it is really good," said the passengers.

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Haryana to Develop Mahabharata Sites in Kurukshetra to Boost Tourism

In a major push to promote Haryana's historical heritage, the state's Heritage and Tourism Minister, Dr. Arvind Kumar Sharma, announced plans to develop Kurukshetra and nearby areas as top tourism destinations. Known for its historical and mythological significance, especially in connection to the Mahabharata, Kurukshetra and surrounding districts will be part of a new tourism initiative termed the ‘Mahabharata Circuit.’ Dr. Sharma shared this vision at the second Mahabharata Circuit Conference held in Karnal, where officials from both Haryana Tourism and the Union Ministry of Tourism discussed the region’s development potential. The Union Ministry of Tourism hosted the conference with the goal of turning historic locations in Kurukshetra, Karnal, and Panipat into popular tourist destinations. Dr. Sharma proposed Kurukshetra may provide comparable facilities to Vrindavan, which attracts thousands of pilgrims, in order to accommodate a greater number of tourists. This initiative seeks to improve infrastructure, create better visitor facilities, and highlight the area's deep cultural roots. The Union Ministry of Tourism's Northern Regional Director, R K Suman emphasised that the ministry is committed to elevating Kurukshetra as a global pilgrimage destination. The Mahabharata Circuit follows the government’s successful establishment of the Ramayana and Krishna Circuits in other parts of northern India, with INR 200 crores invested so far. The project aims to revive and promote religious and historical tourism, attracting pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and international tourists alike. As per the reports, more than 130 industry participants attended the three-day Mahabharata Circuit Conference and Familiarisation Tour in Kurukshetra as part of this endeavour. The aim of this event was to highlight Kurukshetra's historical significance and provide strategies to boost tourism.

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Waqf Board Claims 17 Monuments Within Historic Bidar Fort as Its Property

The Karnataka Board of Waqfs has identified 17 monuments inside the historic Bidar Fort in Karnataka as its property, sources in the district administration said on Wednesday. These properties are among the major landmarks of the fort located in the district headquarters town of Bidar. The Archaeological Survey of India, the custodian of the fort, is unaware of the development; the sources said, adding that out of 60 properties in the Bidar Fort premises, the Waqf Board found that 17 properties to belong to it. These include renowned 16-'Khamba' (sixteen pillar) mosque, 14 tombs of various Bahmani rulers and their family members including Ahmed Shah-IV, Ahmed Shah's wife, Allauddin, Hassan Khan, Mohammed Shah-III, Nizam, Sultan Ahmed Shah Wali and Sultan Mahmud Shah. A top Waqf Board official told PTI, on condition of anonymity, that notices have not been served to the ASI. "How can the Board issue a notice to the ASI, which has been the custodian and protector of the historical monuments for several decades?" He alleged that a lot of mischief and misinformation is happening in the name of Waqf Board that is bringing a bad name to the Muslim community.

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Railways sets new conditions, alters course for Silver Line

Thiruvananthapuram: The Indian Railways will introduce new conditions for approving Kerala's Silver Line semi-high-speed rail project, requiring modifications, including changes in track gauge and alignment. The Railway Board is expected to send a formal letter to the Southern Railway and the state government soon. With these changes likely to alter the foundational design and budget of the project, how the state will address these demands is still unclear. The Kerala Rail Development Corporation Ltd (KRDCL) authorities have stated that they will respond only after receiving the official correspondence. Earlier, a similar letter was issued to Kerala by the Railways, and the KRDCL has submitted a detail reply following a joint inspection of the railway land identified for the project. The Railways' broader plan is to dedicate tracks for the high-speed Vande Bharat Express and goods trains while reserving existing lines for slower services. If a speed track allowing 180 km/h is constructed, the Vande Bharat trains can cover the 587 km from Thiruvananthapuram to Kasargod in just 3.5 hours. Although there is a huge demand for Vande Bharat trains in Kerala, adding more and operating them along with the slower services is impractical due to the limited track capacity.

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Bengaluru Metro’s Green Line extension to open on Nov 7

The move comes after it received statutory clearance following a thorough inspection of the stretch by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (Southern Circle) on October 3. On Wednesday, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar inspected the metro line and took a test run of the stretch from Nagasandra to Madavara by travelling from Yeshwanthpur Metro Station. He was also joined by Bengaluru South MP and BJP leader Tejasvi Surya. According to Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), this line, an elevated metro corridor under Phase-2 of the Project, is from Nagasandra to Madavara (BIEC) for a length 3.14 km and consists of three metro stations -- Majunathanagar, Chikkabidarakallu and Madavara (BIEC). It is completed at a cost of ₹1,168 crore which includes land cost of Rs152 crore. "It is the smallest extension to Phase-1 under Phase-2 of the Project. With completion of this extension, all the extensions to Phase- 1 under Phase-2 of the project are complete," the BMRCL said in a statement. Running along the National Highway, it crosses the NICE (Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprises) road at two locations. This extension line will enhance easy metro access to the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC), a major exhibition hub, large residential complexes and nearby towns thereby saving travel time to an extent of 30 per cent, it said. "It is estimated that with this line opening, an additional 44,000 passengers will be benefitted. This extension will provide direct metro access to BIEC which is a major centre for National and International conferences and exhibitions in Karnataka," the BMRCL stated.

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Thailand offers Indians indefinite visa-free entry

Thailand has granted indefinite visa-free entry to Indian nationals, with visitors now allowed to stay in the country. According to the new policy, Indian travellers will now be allowed to stay in Thailand without a visa for up to 60 days. Under the changes, you can extend your visit by 30 days through a local immigration office. With the new rules in place, this is the perfect time to choose the popular Southeast Asian country as your next holiday destination. Situated in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai often get neglected for the popular and touristy destinations in the country. However, they should be a part of your itinerary for the rich culture, night markets, gorgeous temples, and some peace away from the bustling touristy destinations. Some must-visit places are the White Temple, Chiang Rai's Night Market, Wat Suan Dok, Wat Phra Kaew, and the Blue Temple. While you are there, don't miss out on cafes serving the best food, views and coffee. If done right, Bangkok will stimulate your senses in a way that will make you want to keep coming back. The Thai capital is a cultural oasis with its many spectacular temples (Wat Arun is a must-visit for sunrise/sunset), bustling night markets, unassuming Chinese mansions, cruises down the Chao Phraya River, the epic hotel scene, and exhilarating urban energy. Moreover, one cannot forget Bangkok's Chinatown, which is easily a foodie’s dream! You will also get your Insta-worthy shots here. With its pristine waters, white sand beaches and stunning verdant jungles, Ko Phi Phi is a traveller's paradise. Phi Phi Islands are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Therefore, it makes sense for you to do some island hopping while travelling there. Some must-see attractions here are the Viking Cave, Phi-Phi viewpoint, Maya Bay, Pi Leh Bay, Bamboo Island, and Hat Phak Nam. Whether you are searching for finger-licking good seafood, bustling night scenes, relaxing spa joints or pristine beaches where you can doze off in a hammock, Koh Samui has it all covered for you. Some must-visit places here are the Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park, Na Muang Waterfall, Fisherman's Village, Wat Phra Yai, and Chaweng Beach.

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