Correct option is A
Correct Answer: (a) 1881
Explanation: The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) was opened in 1881 to improve transportation in the hilly regions of West Bengal. It features a unique narrow-gauge track design to accommodate steep gradients and sharp curves, making it a remarkable engineering achievement of its time. The railway was recognized for its historical and cultural significance and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 under the "Mountain Railways of India" category.
Key Points for Exam:
· Year of Opening: 1881
· Purpose: Developed for hill transport and to improve accessibility in Darjeeling
· Track Design: Built to navigate steep slopes with a unique loop and zigzag system
· UNESCO Recognition: Declared a World Heritage Site in 1999
· Significance: One of India's oldest and most famous mountain railways, preserving the colonial-era railway heritage.