The beloved "Van Rani" toy train, a cherished attraction at Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) in Mumbai, is poised for a grand comeback with modern Vistadome coaches, promising an immersive ride through the lush forest nestled in suburban Borivali.

After a four-year hiatus triggered by Cyclone Tauktae’s destruction in May 2021, the revamped narrow-gauge train (762mm) is set to delight visitors with its eco-friendly, battery-operated design. Trial runs for the Vistadome coaches, featuring glass roofs and wide windows for panoramic forest views, began on June 30, 2025, with a successful full-capacity test on July 5. Daily technical checks wrapped up on July 25, paving the way for its imminent relaunch.

The initiative, championed by Union Minister and local BJP MP Piyush Goyal, revives a 50-year legacy that began in 1974 with the Tata Group’s sponsorship. The new Van Rani, painted in striking red-black hues, boasts four coaches adorned with wildlife illustrations native to SGNP, blending education with adventure. A second open-air train, designed for an unfiltered nature experience without windows or doors, is also in the pipeline.

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Each Vistadome train accommodates 80 passengers and travels a 2.3 km track through Krishnagiri Upvan, a 5.5 square km biodiversity hotspot within SGNP. The route features a mini zoo, artificial tunnels, and scenic forest vistas, ensuring a thrilling ride for families and trekkers. Metro-style seating enhances comfort, while the eco-conscious design replaces the old diesel-powered engine.

Infrastructure upgrades are nearly complete, with the track and 15 bridges fully restored as of July 17. A new loco shed near Krishnagiri station supports maintenance, and the station itself, designed to resemble a butterfly, features accessible ramps, artistic murals, and visitor amenities like waiting rooms.

“Van Rani’s return is more than a joyride—it’s a step toward sustainable tourism and biodiversity awareness,” said Goyal. “This revival will elevate North Mumbai’s tourism potential, making SGNP a must-visit destination.”

Managed by the Maharashtra forest department, SGNP plans to introduce branding and advertising on trains and stations to fund park maintenance. The revamped Van Rani promises to rekindle nostalgia while offering a modern, green, and inclusive experience for Mumbaikars and tourists alike.

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