Patna: Visitors to Patna Zoo will soon be able to enjoy a toy train ride once again, with a modern battery-operated train being developed with upgraded facilities and a new route. The proposed train, designed with a Vande Bharat-inspired appearance, will run on a 3.77-kilometre-long new track, being constructed at an estimated cost of ₹9.88 crore.
The four-coach train will have the capacity to carry around 80 passengers in a single trip, with approximately 20 seats in each coach. The ride is expected to last around 40 minutes, offering visitors views of the zoo’s greenery, jungle trail and pond.
The project is targeted for completion by the end of January 2027. Once construction is completed, technical inspections and safety tests will be conducted before a final decision is taken on starting regular operations.
Patna Zoo Toy Train Project: New Track and Construction Details
According to Zoo Director Hemant Patil, the project is being implemented under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Danapur Railway Division and the zoo administration.
After resolving technical issues, work related to the new track has been accelerated. The old track is being removed and a new railway track is being laid. Work on the engine and coaches is also progressing at different levels.
The project involves developing a 3.77-kilometre route at a cost of approximately ₹9.88 crore. After the completion of construction, the train and track will undergo technical checks and safety testing. Regular services will begin only after the necessary assessments and final approval.
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Vande Bharat-Inspired Toy Train to Feature Modern Facilities
The new toy train is being planned with a modern appearance inspired by the Vande Bharat train. It will consist of one engine and four coaches, with seating arrangements for approximately 20 passengers in each coach.
Key features of the proposed toy train include:
- Four passenger coaches: Each coach will accommodate around 20 visitors, allowing approximately 80 passengers to travel in one trip.
- Battery-operated system: The train will run on battery power, making it an environment-friendly transport option within the zoo.
- Air-conditioned coach: One coach is proposed to have an air-conditioning facility for passenger comfort.
- Modern design: The train will have an upgraded appearance inspired by Vande Bharat.
Due to battery capacity and technical requirements, all four coaches are not planned to be air-conditioned.
40-Minute Ride to Offer Views of Jungle Trail and Pond
The new route is being planned to make the toy train journey more attractive for visitors. The existing route is being modified, with the jungle trail section expected to be slightly shortened to include views of the zoo’s pond.
The proposed route will pass near some of the zoo’s major attractions, allowing visitors to enjoy its natural surroundings and greenery during the journey.
The approximately 40-minute ride is expected to offer an enjoyable experience, particularly for children and families. The final route details and stoppages will be clarified when the train service is ready to begin.
Toy Train to Make Zoo Visits Easier for Children and Senior Citizens
The return of the toy train is expected to make visiting Patna Zoo more convenient, particularly for senior citizens, young children and families who may find it difficult to walk across the entire zoo.
Visitors will be able to explore different sections of the zoo while travelling comfortably by train. The facility is expected to make zoo visits more accessible and entertaining.
According to the proposed plan, operations may begin at around 9 am after the zoo opens. However, the ticket prices, regular operating schedule and number of stations have not yet been finalised.
Patna Zoo’s Old Toy Train Service Was Closed in 2015
The earlier toy train service at Patna Zoo was discontinued on 17 August 2015. At the time, concerns had been raised regarding the safety of the old track and coaches.
Now, the zoo administration is preparing to bring back the attraction with a completely new track, modern coaches and upgraded facilities. The proposed restart is expected to add another visitor attraction to Patna Zoo and improve the overall experience for tourists.
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