Toy train no longer chugs at Raja Seat

The toy train and the musical fountain – two major attractions at Raja Seat – have remained dysfunctional, much to the disappointment of tourists who visit during the weekends.

The toy train ‘Cauvery Express’ at Raja Seat was the only train sanctioned for Kodagu. This gave children an opportunity to experience the joy of a train journey, but the train was halted after it developed a technical snag.

A similar problem developed with the musical fountain at Raja Seat.

With tourism in the district being affected by the destructive flood, tourist spots like Raja Seat witness thin attendance. On the other hand, tourists who visited the park to see the fountain and to let their children travel in the train return from the ticket counter empty-handed.

History

The toy train was introduced in Madikeri 25 years ago. It was initially making a round of the golf grounds on the outskirts of Madikeri town. The track was later shifted to Raja Seat. Since then, it has been a major tourist attraction.

While the train is under the maintenance of the City Municipal Council, the track has not been maintained for months. Weeds have grown on the entire track, covering it completely.

An official from the Horticultural Department has said that the device that makes use of software to run the musical fountain has gone out of order as the wires burnt out after being hit by lightning during a show. The issue has been brought to the notice of the higher officials and a request has been placed to repair the software, the official said.

During Dasara, the musical fountain shows used to be conducted for four hours in a day.