Ahmedabad: The railways is planning to curate a journey through Gujarat’s lion land, Gir, on a train that will offer passengers a 360-degree view, simulating the sensation of being surrounded by wilderness where jungle royals luxuriate.The Bhavnagar railway division has proposed to run the train with specially created air-conditioned coaches called the Vistadomes, which have colossal glass windows, glass roofs, and rotating seats that scan the panoramic vista.Passengers feasting on the scenic masterworks will also be able to savour the culinary masterpieces of Gujarat.The plan is being prepared to introduce the unique lion safari on existing metre gauge routes in the Gir landscape. Gir National Park, with Sasan Gir as the focal point, is expected to anchor the proposed tourism initiative. The plan includes two key routes — Junagadh to Delwada and Talala to Kansiyanesh — both of which pass through areas associated with the Asiatic lion habitat. Railway officials aim to develop these routes into dedicated lion safari corridors, combining wildlife tourism with the preservation of the heritage of the metre gauge network.Divisional railway manager Dinesh Verma said, “Once the action plan is approved and the infrastructure is in place, the safari will be implemented.”According to railway officials, a feasibility study has already confirmed the suitability of introducing specially designed metre gauge Vistadome coaches. The proposed train will have a pantry car and a power van to support onboard services.The proposal gained momentum following a recent visit by Aashima Mehrotra, executive director (heritage) of the Railway Board. Discussions during her visit focused on transforming the Gir-connected metre gauge section into a rail-based wildlife tourism product.As part of the broader plan, the Sasan Gir railway station is among five identified for heritage-themed redevelopment. The others include Savni, Talala Junction, Kansiyanesh, and Visavadar. Officials said the stations will be upgraded with a heritage aesthetic while incorporating modern passenger amenities such as air-conditioned waiting rooms.Verma recently conducted a detailed inspection of the section, reviewing operations, safety, and passenger facilities. He emphasized the need to strengthen the distinct identity of the metre gauge network and explore its tourism potential.Officials said that special attention is being given to developing the Gir-linked section into a rail safari experience, with Sasan Gir positioned as the central hub due to its role as the primary entry point for visitors to the sanctuary.The project would mark a first-of-its-kind wildlife safari within the sanctuary, offering an alternative to traditional jeep safaris. Railways noted that since the metre gauge line already exists— and conversion to broad gauge is not permitted — the proposal provides an effective way to utilize the infrastructure while generating revenue.Forest department officials have indicated that they are open to considering the proposal since such an initiative could help reduce the load on jeep safaris while further boosting tourism in the region.
