Children in Davanagere can once again enjoy rides on the toy train at District Bal Bhavan, which has resumed operations after being suspended since the Covid-19 pandemic. The train now runs daily between 5pm and 7pm.
Upgraded Track Ensures Safety
The attraction features an upgraded track with cement sleepers replacing wooden ones beneath the rails, in line with railway department guidelines. This revival has brought cheer to children and families visiting the facility.
Rajanaik, deputy director, told TOI that the train has resumed its operation at District Bal Bhavan. “Actually, the toy train was operating after the construction of District Bal Bhavan in 2014-15 and was one of the attractions in the city. But the train track underwent repair after the Covid pandemic, and it was defunct. With the financial assistance of Davanagere MP, deputy commissioner, and ZP CEO, we could get this train and track repaired. We have fixed Rs 10 per adult and Rs 5 for children aged below 18 years. We will use this collected fee for the maintenance,” he added.
Funding and Support
MP Prabha Mallukarjun said that Davanagere people were demanding restoration of toy trains, and they requested railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. “After our regular follow-up, we could get funds of Rs 3 lakh from the railway department for train and track repair and Rs 11.3 lakh from the district administration for cement sleepers, by which the toy train operation has become safer and smoother,” she asserted.
Children's Joy
Children Vinayak P Shreya KT, Vijaya PS, who travelled in a toy train on June 16, during the inauguration, said it was a thrilling experience to take two rounds in the Bal Bhavan. “We had seen such trains only in movies and cartoon channels, and we have got this facility in our city,” they shared.
Community Response
Residents Gangayya, Tejaswini, Sunita and others said that it was over a 5-year-old demand of people of Davanagere, a tier-3 city. “It will boost creativity among children. However, authorities should ensure proper maintenance,” they urged.
