Guwahati, Dec 9 (NationPress) The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) is set to implement strategies aimed at boosting operational effectiveness, promoting heritage preservation, and enhancing passenger experiences on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, officials reported on Tuesday.

NFR’s Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) Kapinjal Kishore Sharma stated that NFR General Manager Chetan Kumar Shrivastava conducted an extensive review and inspection of the DHR.

The purpose of the GM’s visit was to fortify operational efficiency, heritage conservation, and passenger experience throughout the UNESCO World Heritage Railway, according to the official.

During the visit, Shrivastava performed a thorough assessment of vital sections, interacted with field personnel, inaugurated significant new assets, and evaluated developmental initiatives critical for the long-term preservation and modernization of DHR.

Sharma mentioned that the General Manager examined the Tindharia-Rongtong section, scrutinizing asset conditions, ongoing work progress, and compliance with safety measures along this demanding stretch.

He inaugurated the newly constructed Diesel Locomotive, praising the team for their commitment to high-quality construction, stringent safety standards, and excellent performance metrics.

Additionally, he assessed the maintenance practices implemented across DHR and commended the diligent upkeep of rolling stock, track infrastructure, and heritage structures.

Shrivastava also unveiled the extensively renovated Ghum Museum, referring to it as a pivotal achievement in enriching visitor experiences.

Recognizing the increasing visitor numbers and the cultural significance of the museum, he announced plans for further expansion, incorporating more informative and immersive exhibits that celebrate the engineering marvel and historical heritage of DHR. The GM then flagged off the special centenary run of steam locomotive 806B “Queen of the Hills,” commemorating 100 years of its service, a celebration that highlighted NFR’s dedication to safeguarding the railway’s iconic steam heritage.

During his inspection of the Ghum-Sonada section, the General Manager evaluated track conditions, operational methodologies, and safety protocols, applauding the initiatives taken to uphold world-class safety standards while maintaining the line’s UNESCO world heritage integrity.

At Kurseong, he inaugurated the newly constructed diesel locomotive and unveiled the upgraded Kurseong archives, a significant enhancement anticipated to benefit residents, researchers, tourists, and heritage enthusiasts with improved documentation and historical resources.

While inspecting passenger interfaces, operational facilities, and heritage assets, Shrivastava provided detailed recommendations to officials on enhancing passenger amenities, improving operational efficiency, and ensuring that all developmental projects are mindful of the heritage character of the railway.

He also underscored the necessity of ongoing maintenance, responsive passenger services, and continuous innovation to keep DHR aligned with global heritage railway benchmarks.

The General Manager's visit reaffirmed the Northeast Frontier Railway’s commitment to safeguarding the distinctive legacy of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway while advancing initiatives that improve comfort, safety, and the overall travel experience for passengers.

His focused review and forward-thinking directives are anticipated to significantly bolster DHR’s long-term vision of merging heritage conservation with modern, passenger-centric operations.

The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) operates in the Northeastern states and in seven districts of West Bengal and five districts of northern Bihar.