India&rsquos first solar-powered miniature train was launched at Veli Tourist Village in Kerala on November 2. The miniature train has all the features of a fully equipped rail system which includes a tunnel, station and a ticket office.
The engine of the train spouts artificial steam for a dose of nostalgia. The station is designed in the traditional style. The train has three compartments that can accommodate up to 45 people at a time. &ldquoThe eco-friendly solar-powered 2.5 km miniature railway will enable visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature. The Rs 10 crore project is the first of its kind in the country,&rdquo said Pinarayi Vijayan, the Chief Minister of Kerala, in an online address.
The surplus energy generated by the system will be routed to the Kerala State Electricity Board&rsquos grid, Vijayan said. A tourist facilitation centre, convention centre and an art cafe are also opening soon at Veli.