Mumbai:
After a four‑year hiatus, the iconic Van Rani mini toy train is ready to chug through Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) once more, bringing fresh excitement for nature lovers and families alike.
First launched in 1974, Van Rani, literally “Queen of the Jungle”, has been a fixture of Mumbai’s eco‑tourism offerings for over five decades. It was halted in 2021 when Cyclone Tauktae severely damaged the 2.3‑kilometre narrow‑gauge track and its 15 bridges. The park’s management, supported by the Ministries of Railways and Environment, halted operations until restoration could assure public safety.
Under the leadership of Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Maharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik, the restoration has proceeded steadily. Work included completely relaying the 2.3‑km track, rebuilding all 15 bridges, and deploying a brand‑new eco‑friendly Vistadome train unit. Trial runs began on 30 June 2025, with a successful full‑capacity test taking place on 5 July.
The upgraded train can seat up to 80 passengers and is electrically powered, a marked improvement over the old diesel model. “I am delighted to see the return of the toy train ‘Van Rani’ at Sanjay Gandhi National Park,” Mr Goyal said. “It is not just a toy train for kids,it is a symbol of sustainable and inclusive tourism”.
Both Krishnagiri and Teenmurthy stations have undergone modernisation. Krishnagiri now features enhanced platforms, better buildings, and accessibility ramps. At Teenmurthy, the platform has been refurbished and a station shed is expected to be completed by 25 July.
The new service offers more than a simple ride through greenery. Each coach includes informational panels showcasing SGNP’s native flora and fauna, while the Vistadome design, complete with transparent roofs and large windows, offers panoramic views of Deer Park, the mini‑zoo, and forested areas. A senior official noted that one train stock features open‑air coaches to immerse visitors fully in nature.
This green makeover has been welcomed by conservation supporters. The move towards electric operation and educational content emphasises Mumbai’s commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental awareness.
The park spans approximately 87 km² within city limits, attracting some 2 million visitors annually . The relaunch of Van Rani, scheduled to reopen by the end of July 2025, aims to boost local eco‑tourism by offering families and school groups an immersive and instructive nature ride.
Beyond its nostalgic appeal, Van Rani’s return symbolises a broader shift in urban tourism: one that values heritage, sustainability, and education. Its revival sets a template for how city parks can reinvent themselves as centres of conservation awareness. Visitors new and old will soon have the chance to relish this blend of nostalgia and eco‑learning aboard Mumbai’s “Queen of the Jungle.”
