(a) whether the project of technology transfer of oil fired steam engine has been funded by
the Railway Board to use old steam engines;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the extent to which it use be economical;
(c) whether it will more beneficial than the diesel and electrical engine;
(d) if so, the details thereof;
(e) whether old steam engines have been disposed of as scrapes; and
(f) if not, the manner in which old steam engines are proposed to be disposed of?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI R. VELU)
(a) to (d) One oil fired steam locomotive for Darjeeling Himalayan Railway has been newly
manufactured with technical assistance from abroad in heritage interest without payment of
consultancy charges. Though diesel and electric tractions are more efficient, a few steam
engines need to be kept in service for the interest of heritage and tourism.
(e) & (f) No, Sir. A few steam engines are still available and not being disposed of in
the interest of heritage and tourism.