Navi Mumbai: The resumption of the mini train service between Neral and Matheran has been indefinitely delayed as its engines need repairs. It stopped around May this year, ahead of the monsoon.Eight engines were put into service on the 21-km-long Neral–Matheran section. However, two of these continue to be in service on the 3-km-long shuttle section between Aman Lodge and Matheran. One engine serves as a replacement on this shuttle stretch and as a goods train too.Sources reveal that the engines have been sent for repair works at Kurla, Parel and Matunga workshops in case of major overhaul or repair while being parked at Neral for minor issues. One of the engines has been sent to a workshop while others are currently parked at Neral.The track is ready for resumption of service, but engine and other issues have surfaced. This has been causing delays. However, locals expect the service to restart on this section soon.TOI tried to contact Central Railway chief PRO Swapnil Nila for a comment, but there was no response.Activist Janardan Parte said, “We have demanded before the union railway minister for availing more coaches and goods wagons on this section. However, no decision has been taken on the demands. The local MP needs to pursue the demand before the minister.”
