A state-of-the-art toy train, once the pride of Hubballi's MG Park and built at a cost of Rs 4.2 crore under the Smart City initiative, now presents a shocking picture of neglect and decay. The train, designed to mimic modern bullet trains, is currently non-operational, with both its engines damaged, doors left open, and its interiors covered in a thick layer of dust.
From Modern Marvel to Monument of Neglect
Launched with much fanfare, the toy train was engineered by a Pune-based company and featured cutting-edge amenities. It boasted a sleek design with a curved single glass windscreen, a front scrolling LED screen, air conditioning, audio-visual systems, CCTV cameras, and automatic doors. With a capacity for 64 children or 44 adults across four bogies, it promised a safe and enjoyable ride along a 950-metre track.
Safety was a key focus, with provisions like fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and a dedicated pilot. The project also included supporting infrastructure like stations and a maintenance shed. However, a recent visit revealed a grim reality. The train is parked at its station, stripped of its wiring, with damaged displays, littered interiors containing empty water bottles and cigarette butts, and seats blanketed in dust.
A History of Operational Troubles and Public Outcry
The toy train's journey has been plagued with problems since its inaugural run. During the launch itself, dignitaries including former chief minister Jagadish Shettar and Union Minister Pralhad Joshi were on board when it experienced a halt. It subsequently faced a series of technical glitches and operational delays, leading to its current abandoned state.
Social activist Gurunath Ullikashi has highlighted the situation, urging immediate intervention from the authorities. He emphasizes that the train is not merely an attraction but a symbol of innovation and community joy, and its revival is crucial to preserve the substantial public investment and restore a beloved park feature.
Official Response and Broader Smart City Concerns
When contacted, HDMC commissioner Rudresh Ghali stated he was unaware of the train's latest condition and promised to visit the park with officials to assess the status and work towards restoring it. This incident follows another controversy related to Hubballi-Dharwad's Smart City projects, where a committee report on the Smart health system at Chitaguppi Hospital recommended the recovery of Rs 3.2 crore, citing non-implementation.
The decaying toy train raises serious questions about the maintenance and sustainability of high-cost public infrastructure projects initiated under flagship schemes like Smart City. The community now awaits concrete action from the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation to bring this expensive asset back to life.
