SILIGURI, India — In a big step to revive India’s tourism amid the Covid-19 pandemic, the Northeast Frontier Railway has officially introduced a special tourist train with Vistadome coach flagged off on Aug. 28.
The Dooars region in eastern India has initiated this step to attract tourists and develop the region’s tourism industry.
The unique Vistadome service between New Jalpaiguri to Alipurduar Junction (Dooars region) was flagged off by John Barla, member of parliament from Alipurduar and Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs.
“It is a very good initiative taken by the Indian Railways,” Barla said.
“The Union government is always trying to develop states in a cordial atmosphere, but here in West Bengal, the Centre always faces restrictions in implementing welfare schemes, which affects development in the state and has a direct impact on its people.”
Barla has tweeted about the event where he talks about the facilities of the train.
“Today flagged off “Vista Dome Tourist Train,” he tweeted.
“This train will go from NJP to Alipurduar, which is equipped with modern facilities. This train will give a big boost to tourism in our region. During his Dooars journey, the curiosity of the people riding in this train was made on sight.”
The train will cover 168 kilometers (104.3 miles) long route from New Jalpaiguri to Alipurduar station initially thrice a week on every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
The fares will be around INR 900 ($12.28) one way. The AC chair car and non-AC chair car fare would be INR 410 ($5.5) and INR 85 ($1.15). Passengers can book tickets through Passenger Reservation System or the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation web portal.
The 360-degree viewing system of the special Vistadome coaches will allow passengers to have a great view of the surroundings. Its large windows and transparent plexiglass roofs will ensure that tourists enjoy the scenic beauty of the Dooars, known for their rich flora and fauna.
Also, Wi-Fi service will be available for all the coaches on the train.
The coaches will have automatic sliding doors, LED display boards, and bio-toilets.
“The Indian Railway has introduced advanced coaches with all necessary needs that shall run between New Jalpaiguri to Alipurduar twice in a week,” said Shuvendhu Kumar Choudhury, Divisional Railway Manager, Katihar Division, Northeast Frontier Railway.
“The response is quite good, all the tickets were sold out for the next three days, and this service will definitely help in enhancing tourism infrastructure and boosting the tourism industry.”
(With inputs from ANI)
Edited by Saptak Datta and Ritaban Misra
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