120-year-old Shimla train to get a desi makeover

NEW DELHI: The historic and 120-year-old Kalka-Shimla Railway (KSR) is set for an image makeover for the first time since it started service. In less than a year from now, swanky new indigenously manufactured coaches with features for panoramic view, mini pantry and bio-toilets will be operational on this stretch.The new coaches will come with both AC and non-AC chair cars. Currently, there is no AC chair car facility. The Rail Coach Factory (RCF) at Kapurthala in Punjab has manufactured four advanced narrow-gauge coaches - AC executive chair car, AC chair car, non-AC chair car and a luggage car - and their trial run has started.These will be in addition to the current set of toy trains on this route. The new coaches will have have the best amenities for passengers with windows up to the roof which make it easier for travellers to experience a panoramic view of the mountains. The coaches are also equipped with power doors and windows. These have 180-degree swivel chairs, enabling the passengers to rotate their seats upon their wish. Moreover, CCTV and the fire alarm have also been installed.The railways has given the task to RCF to design and manufacture new rolling stock (trains and coahes) for the Kalka-Shimla corridor, which uses a 762 mm gauge of track.