PESHAWAR, May 19: After remaining suspended for months, the Khyber Steam Safari resumed service on Monday.

The first special train left the Peshawar Cantt station for its onward journey to Landi Kotal, Khyber Agency, on Monday morning, with a BBC TV crew, officials of the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation and representatives of various tourism and heritage organizations on board.

Also travelling are scores of history and adventure enthusiasts, including some foreigners.

The steam-drawn train, operating since 1925 on this route, makes an exciting journey passing through several tunnels and tortuous bends to make its way up the Khyber Pass.

The train made its first brief stop at Jamrud station. Later, it made another stop at Shagai station where refreshments were served.

After arriving at Landi Kotal at noon, the guests of the Sarhad Tourism Corporation were taken to the Michni Post near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border where they witnessed a splendid view of Afghanistan. They were given a briefing by a young protocol officer, who gave an overview of the pass and explained its historical importance. Finally, the tourists were taken to the mess of the Khyber Rifles for a sumptuous lunch in its lush green lawns.

HIKING CLUB: The Hiking Club of Khyber Medical College (KMC) announced its cabinet for the year 2003, said a press release on Monday. The cabinet comprises: Professor Jamilur Rehman, chairman; Irfan Khan, general secretary; Imran Ahmad, joint secretary (male); Mahreen Ahmed, joint secretary (female); Maria Sabir, finance secretary; Ihsan Mehmood, public relation secretary and Shah Jehan, press secretary.