Darjeeling station to be restored to its past glory
Times of India | 19 April 2025
123 Darjeeling: The 89-year-old iconic Darjeeling town station is set to undergo a facelift. A detailed project report for the upcoming restoration was being finalised, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) director Rishav Choudhary said.
"The plan aims to revive the station's original art deco architecture, while incorporating modern amenities to ensure both authenticity and functionality. The project is being undertaken with the help of an ASI-registered agency to guarantee historical accuracy in every detail. The station restoration is not just about reviving a building, it's about restoring a legacy for future generations," Choudhary said.
Alongside the restoration announcement, DHR marked World Heritage Day on Friday with a blend of celebration and commitment. It hosted a special heritage joy ride for schoolchildren, continuing an initiative started on March 28 that offers free morning rides to students in the Hills.
Officials said the rides have been designed to foster a deeper connection between the region's youth and its rich rail heritage. DHR was not only a functional transport system but also a living museum, one that continues to evolve while honouring its past, an official said.
"World Heritage Day is a celebration of identity and memory. We are proud to preserve the architectural and cultural soul of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway even as we modernise," said Choudhary.