Nilgiri Mountain Rail suspended

Services of the 'heritage' Nilgiris Mountain Train have been suspended till November 30 from Mettupalayam to Coonoor following landslides on the track.

However, the train would run between Udhagamandalam and Coonoor as the track on the route has not been affected by the landslips, despite good amount of rainfall on the section.

More than 25 minor landslides have occurred between the Coonoor-Mettupalayam sector, resulting in boulders and tree branches falling on the track, leading to suspension of the services, they said.

Though restoration work is progressing well, it would take at least 10 days to clear the debris and also set right the track, the sources said.

The train, which recently received 'Heritage' status and running between Mettupalayam, about 40 kms from here and Udhagamandalam, is a major tourist attraction. However, minor landslips being experienced for the last two months, have disappointed the tourists.

Meanwhile, restoration work on the Kallar-Barliar route, which witnessed heavy landslips, have been carried out on a war footing, with the help of earthmovers and other necessary equipment.

Source: The Hindu