The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) has decided to extend the suspension of toy train services between New Jalpaiguri (NJP) and Darjeeling till August 31.

The toy train service has come to a halt for around two months because of the monsoonal downpour, which triggered landsides on the tracks that ascended to the hills.

“It is raining continuously across the hills. That is why, it has been decided that the regular service of DHR between NJP and Darjeeling stations will remain suspended till August 31.

The service will resume only after the weather improves,” said Priyanshu, the director of DHR.

The service was suspended earlier after some spots along the tracks that run parallel to NH-110 became vulnerable because of the continuous descent of rubbles from the hills.

The spots are mostly located between Sukna, the last station in the plains located around 10km from Siliguri, and Kurseong.

“We hope the monsoonal rainfall will recede by the end of this month and after inspecting the tracks, we can start the service in September,” he added.

The authorities, however, pointed out that in the absence of the regular service, a new service has been introduced between Darjeeling and Kurseong.

“Also, eight joy rides between between Darjeeling and Ghoom stations are operational,” said an official.