Raju Bista, MP from Darjeeling constituency, laid the foundation for the rebuilding of the Darjeeling Railway Station’s locomotive shed on Monday and officially launched the station’s renovated train station. He also participated in the closing ceremony of the ongoing Ghoom Festival 2022 and laid the cornerstone for remodelling the heritage park at the Ghoom railway station.
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railways (DHR), while being a well-known monument, has had issues in the past because of a lack of money, staffing, and infrastructure, according to Bista. “By discussing the problems and difficulties DHR faces both inside and outside of Parliament, I have attempted to change this,” Bista claimed. He expressed gratitude for the parties involved in DHR’s combined efforts and noted that finally, things are improving.
Furthermore, he adds, “I’m pleased to inform you that 88 job vacancies within DHR have been filled in the previous three years alone, and additional hiring will take place in the upcoming years. Additionally, the ancient DHR workshop at Tindharey will be upgraded thanks to funding from the Ministry of Railways. I’ve asked that the Tindharey workshop become a centre for producing narrow-gauge diesel locomotives.“
According to the Darjeeling MP, this will be the first specialised locomotive workshop in the nation and will increase employment prospects in the area.
“The entire route is undergoing significant renovation and maintenance work, and new trains and Vistadom coaches have been introduced. The Sevoke-Rangpo rail line is being built quickly, and once it is operational, we will see a significant increase in tourists as well as more trains and easier access. Plans call for expanding new routes in Kalimpong and Mirik,” says Bista.
Additionally, he was grateful that the Ghoom festival has served as a forum for the promotion of regional music, dance, food, visual arts, handicrafts, and other art forms. “As tourism is one of the main sources of revenue for the people in our region, efforts like the Ghoom festival will significantly increase both tourism and the local economy,” continues Bista.
“While the officials are doing their part, it is also our responsibility to maintain DHR. We need to reclaim control of DHR to stop individuals from trespassing on its land and building there,” adds Bista.
