Thane Gets Switzerland-Like Cable Cars: India's Longest Funicular Railway Opens

• India's longest funicular railway, resembling Switzerland's cable cars, is now operational at Malanggad (Haji Malang) in Thane district, near Kalyan.
• The railway reduces the two-hour walking journey for devotees to Haji Malang dargah to just 7-10 minutes, benefiting senior citizens, women, and children.
• Proposed by then MLA Ambernath Kisan Kathore, the project began in 2012, faced delays due to challenging terrain, and was completed last year.
• The system uses two counterbalanced carriages on a cable, with one ascending as the other descends, significantly reducing energy consumption.
• Two trains with two coaches each will run, capable of transporting approximately 1,200 passengers per hour, with potential for 24-hour service.

Why It Matters: Thane's new funicular railway at Malanggad offers a quick, accessible, and scenic route for devotees and tourists.