Though the date for the introduction of this train depends on the waiting list of the passengers, it is expected to off-load the heavy rush expected to begin in a week’s time. The train will run for almost a month till the rush of tourists headed for the hills is highest.

“In the past, we have had a long waiting list of passengers wanting to travel by the Kalka-Shimla train during this time of the year. To ease the passenger flow and give them an option besides travelling by road, the train will be run. The waiting list will be compiled by the authorities by this week to decide on the date for the inauguration of this special train,” said Divisional Railway Manager S K Jaggi.

Running on the narrow gauge, this special train will be the replica of Kalka-Shimla toy train. The ADRM said the winter special train will be a daily. “With the new locomotives received for the Kalka-Shimla Railway, we have extra rolling stock and locomotive for this winter special train,” said ADRM R K Saxena.