Photo: Pinterest  Discovering Railway History on Heritage Walks India’s railway network has a rich history and heritage waiting to be explored. Railway-themed heritage walks are uncovering this legacy through guided tours of hidden gems, old stations, and tunnels. These walks spotlight unique facts and stories to appreciate the railways’ contributions. Hidden Histories  Do you know Mumbai’s iconic Victoria Terminus station was designed by British architect Frederick William Stevens? Shockingly, the UNESCO World Heritage Site borrows Gothic, Hindu, and Islamic architectural styles. Kolkata’s Howrah Bridge uses 26,500 tonnes of steel trusses fabricated in England. These fascinating nuggets of history and engineering trivia are highlighted on railway heritage walks.    Not only that, many walks even traverse forgotten tunnels and routes to highlight railway expansion. The old Yamuna Bridge connecting Delhi and Lahore is a must-see on the Delhi Walk. Experiencing Heritage  Heritage walks are guided by experts who share insider stories and lesser-known facts. You get to discover the vision behind stations, bridges, and workshops on these curated trails. It’s amazing to identify old locomotives, signaling systems, meters, and coaches that built our rail network: spot colonial markers, boundary walls, and milestones along the trail.  You’ll also appreciate how railway lines align with local history. The Chennai Egmore Museum walk shows this beautifully.  Preserving Knowledge For railway enthusiasts, heritage walks are windows into the unique engineering, architectural, and social facets that shaped rail history. They build awareness so that heritage sites are valued and preserved. Many walks even support station restoration to retain our rail heritage.  Whether you’re a train lover or a history buff, railway heritage walks uncover a new side to India’s train journey. Source-

Photo: Pinterest  Capturing the Romance of Steam Trains  Do you remember those iconic images of billowing steam locomotives chugging across bridges and mountains? Vintage railway photography beautifully captures the nostalgia and old-world charm of heritage trains in India. These artful photos transport us back to the golden age of steam railways. Beginnings Railway photography gained popularity in India when trains were first introduced in the 1850s. Photographers documented historic events like the arrival of the first trains in cities across India.  Do you know one of the earliest railway photographs is of the 1854 Mumbai-Thane train inauguration? Shockingly, it was clicked by an unknown Indian photographer, not a British studio. By the late 1800s, publishers like Johnston & Hoffmann commissioned stunning images of trains winding through landscapes. Indians too became avid railway photographers. Artistry and Nostalgia Vintage rail images showcase both the artistic composition and the train’s aesthetics. Dramatic angles, lighting, and black and white tones accentuated the locomotive’s old-world allure. Billowing clouds of steam, intricate engine details, and the scale of bridges created a powerful sense of drama and romance in rail travel.  You’ll be amazed at how iconic these nostalgic images have become as symbols of adventure and progress. Pop Culture Connect Rail photography also popularised trains in Indian pop culture. Iconic calendar art and Bollywood song sequences were shot at heritage rail sites. Remember the evergreen song ‘Rail Gadi Mein Jhoom Barabar‘ with scenes of a classic steam train? Such images kindled the public’s fascination with railways. Captured for posterity, vintage railway photography immortalized the irresistible magic and power of iron horses that popularised train travel in India. Today, vintage rail images are a window into the grand railway heritage of India. They showcase ingenious engineering and design that make train travel aspirational. More importantly, they highlight the romance, excitement, and joy of exploring India’s diverse landscapes by rail. These images continue to inspire us each time we embark on our train journeys across India. As platforms for nostalgia, history, and artistry, vintage railway photographs beautifully freeze the timeless appeal of trains in India.  Source

Photo: Flickr Spine-Chilling Tales from Across India Traveling across India by train, one can’t miss the many spine-tingling stories of railway ghost sightings and paranormal activities. Several stations and trains have chilling urban legends behind them. Read on for some spooky railway ghost stories from around India. The Vanishing Lady in White The beautiful Peshawar Express is haunted by a lady in white who mysteriously vanishes from the train on full moon nights! Do you know sightings have been reported near Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh?  Shockingly, many claim the white lady asks for lifts from strangers before disappearing into thin air. Legend says she is the ghost of a lady killed on her wedding night on that train many years ago. The Dancing Little Girl The deserted Burdwan station in West Bengal always wears a deserted look. But over the years, passengers have reported sighting a young girl in a frock dancing playfully on platform no. 3 in the night. You’ll be amazed to know that cleaners have even found tiny footprints near the platform in the morning. Locals believe the girl fell off a moving train years ago and now haunts the platform. Spooky. The Headless Passenger In hushed tones, passengers talk of a headless man aboard the Mumbai-Goa passenger train, especially during the monsoons. Not only that, people have apparently also witnessed a headless figure walking towards the toilet at night. Urban legend says the ghost is of a man who lost his head when he stuck it out of the door foolishly. Definitely sends chills down one’s spine. Tales of restless spirits, mysterious apparitions, and ghostly sightings have become part of railway folklore across India. Traveling at night, keep an eye out for paranormal activities on the tracks. Source

Photo: Wikipedia  Fairy Queen: Asia’s Oldest Working Steam Locomotive The famous Fairy Queen locomotive holds the record for being the world’s oldest operational steam engine! This national treasure was built in 1855 and runs heritage tours on India’s railways. Steeped in history, the Fairy Queen gives us a glimpse into the romantic era of steam trains in India.  Made in Britain Do you know the Fairy Queen was built by Kitson, Thompson, and Hewitson in Leeds, Britain, way back in 1855? She was shipped to Kolkata and assembled at the historic Howrah Locomotive Works. Shockingly, this tiny loco weighed only 12 tonnes but had immense pulling power. She was put into service hauling mail trains between Howrah and Raniganj in West Bengal. Not only that, she set a speed record in India by sprinting at an unheard of speed of 43 mph during trials. No wonder she was christened the ‘Fairy Queen’. Retirement and Revival By 1900, the Fairy Queen was retired from regular service as newer engines arrived. She languished for decades in a railway shed before being discovered and restored.  In 1997, after extensive renovation, the 142-year old Fairy Queen returned to the tracks! This made her the world’s oldest working steam locomotive.  You’ll be amazed to know she was declared a National Treasure in 2002. The Guinness Book of World Records also certified her as the oldest operational engine. Legacy Railway Tours Today, the Fairy Queen operates heritage railway tours between Delhi, Cantt, and Alwar. Tourists can ride this vintage beauty and relive the grandeur of 19th century train travel. With her gleaming green livery, polished woodwork, and steam whistles, she transports you back in time. Passengers are served high tea on fine china as the Queen chugs along. At 165 years old now, she reminds us of the rich history of Indian Railways. The sprightly Fairy Queen is cherished as the doyenne of our locomotive fleet and the reigning queen of steam engines in Asia. Source

Photo: India Rail Info Ghost Stations: Exploring India’s Lost and Abandoned Rail Sites  India’s vast railway network is dotted with forgotten stations that once bustled with activity. As routes changed over the decades, many stations were abandoned and left to decay into eerie ruins. These ‘ghost stations’ have intriguing stories to uncover for the intrepid explorer. Stations Lost in Time Do you know there are over 200 lost and abandoned stations on India’s railway network? Shockingly, thriving junctions like Brindavan in Bengal and Clutterbuckganj in Madhya Pradesh were simply deserted years ago. Not only that, but an extension of railway lines also left stations like Padapokhari in Bihar cut off from the main network and forgotten. Their isolated ruins stand testimony to changing track routes. You’ll be amazed to find crumbling platforms covered in moss, overgrown tracks, and abandoned station buildings, now only inhabited by bats. It’s like time frozen from the colonial era. Whispers from the Past  Each ghost station has its own intriguing backstory. Take Kayamkulam station in Kerala, abandoned in the 1960s. Local lore says a railway worker haunts the rundown platform at night. Some relic stations were used as shelters by freedom fighters. Batesar, in Madhya Pradesh, allegedly hides a forgotten underground room linked to the 1857 mutiny. Such tales give a sense of mystery to these silent sentinels from our rail history. They seem to whisper forgotten secrets from the past. Preserving Rail Heritage Many now call for the conservation of our lost railway heritage. Stations like Begunkodor in Bengal are being revived through local efforts. Some old lines may also reopen for tourism.  Ghost stations can become portals into history if preserved in small museums or galleries. Visiting them is a haunting reminder of the labor that built our mighty rail network. Though crumbling, India’s lost stations are pieces of our rail history to be treasured. Who knows what stories lie buried on these silent platforms? Source

Photo: Reuters Tragedy and Lessons for Advancement India’s vast railway network dates back over 150 years. Inevitably, there have been accidents and disasters that have cost lives and revealed crucial safety gaps. While tragic, analyzing past rail accidents has also led to critical reforms that improved safety. Learning from these events has made train travel safer for all. Early Perils  Do you know one of the first major rail disasters in India happened in 1861 near Mathura? Shockingly, 14 passengers died when a train derailed while crossing the Yamuna River.  In the 1900s, derailments and collisions became frequent as train usage rose. Passenger deaths from falls were also high, as coaches lacked safety handles and doors.  You’ll be amazed to know that over 40,000 people died in train accidents between 1950 and 2000 before safety regulations improved. Deadly gaps include unmanned crossings, a lack of communication between drivers, and inadequate coach design. Coaches made of wooden planks were major fire hazards. Implementing Safety Reforms  Findings from inquiry committees led to crucial reforms over the decades. Train speed limits were imposed. Coaches were redesigned with metal and emergency exits were added. Not only that, interlocking signals, gate automation, and strict maintenance protocols also emerged. Disaster response teams were set up to provide medical aid quickly. These measures have reduced accidents significantly. The railways keep striving to make travel safe using the latest technology. Remembering Tragedy  We cannot forget the many lives lost in rail disasters that revealed safety issues. Memorials at sites like Bihar’s Gaisal train accident serve as grim reminders.  While advancements continue, passengers also need to stay alert and follow safety protocols during the journey. Only then can tragedy be avoided. The railways’ safety record has improved thanks to lessons from history. Our goal remains – accident-free operations where passenger lives are valued above all else. Source

Photo: Kashmir Life The Partition and Railways, Forging Ahead After Division The partition of British India into India and Pakistan in 1947 was one of the most tumultuous events in history. As the nation divided, the railways faced massive disruptions and damage. But they also played a crucial role in helping both new nations recover and rebuild after partition. Upheaval and Chaos Partition triggered one of the largest mass migrations ever. Over 14 million people were displaced as Hindus and Sikhs fled to India, and Muslims to Pakistan. This led to terrible violence and the loss of lives and property.  Overcrowded trains full of refugees became moving targets, often attacked by mobs. Railway tracks were dismantled or damaged too. You’ll be shocked to know that by 1949, railway infrastructure suffered losses of ₹80 crore! Thousands of miles of track, hundreds of locomotives, carriages, bridges, and signals were affected.  Not only that, crucial rail links between the two new countries were permanently severed. Operational systems fell into disarray. Many skilled railway workers also migrated away. Coming Together to Heal In this environment, running the railways again seemed impossible. But it was urgently needed to restore normalcy and connect divided families.  India and Pakistan worked quickly to rebuild the destroyed infrastructure. Engineers, technicians, and workers volunteered around the clock. Tracks were relaid, trains repaired, and routes reopened within months in many areas. Within a year, India had managed to re-link disconnected parts in the Punjab and Northwest. Pakistan restored the vital Lahore-Karachi line. Cooperation and the sharing of resources between the two nations also helped restart operations. Aid came from international agencies, too. However, the speedy railway recovery was mostly due to dedicated staff and citizens willing to set aside differences. The railway became a symbol of unity and hope. Strengthening New Nations The partition had fractured India’s extensive rail network built by the British. Through enormous efforts, it was now reconfigured to serve independent geo-political realities.  In India, freight and passenger movement was redirected to align with the new western and eastern borders. Railway headquarters shifted from Lahore to Delhi as the capital changed. Pakistan similarly relocated its hub from Mumbai to Lahore. Rail links between the two countries were limited to only 4 main routes. This reinforced national identities but reduced economic cooperation. Aid for Refugees & Recovery  The railways played a big role in managing the refugee crisis in both nations. Trains transported and housed millions displaced by violence and migration. Rail infrastructure and transport services also aided post-war rehabilitation. Resources could be mobilized quickly to provide relief and restore essential services.  The partition and independence of India, and Pakistan created huge upheaval and challenges. However, the shared colonial rail legacy also bonded both nations in overcoming difficulties. Despite divisions, the railways proved unifying healing forces in incredibly trying times. They exemplified cooperation and resilience as India and Pakistan forged new futures. Source

Photo: India TV News Rajdhani Express: India’s High-Speed Track to the Future The Rajdhani Express is one of India’s premium train services, connecting Delhi to major cities at high speeds. Introduced in 1969, these prestigious trains ushered in a new era of fast, comfortable long-distance travel in the country. Need for Speed In the 1960s, journey times were long, as most trains averaged just 45-50 kmph. There was a demand for faster services.  The fact is that the fastest trains back then took over 24 hours to cover less than 1500 km between Delhi and Howrah? The Railways decided to launch new trains modeled on Europe’s express services. The goal was to connect Delhi to state capitals at 100+ kmph. You’ll be shocked to know the first Rajdhanis could hit a top speed of 140 kmph, making them the fastest in India then. Modern amenities What set the Rajdhani apart was its modern amenities and efficient service. These all-AC trains offered comfortable reclining chairs, curtains, fans, lighting and toilets.  Not only that, Rajdhanis were fully reserved trains with pantry cars serving hot veg meals on linen and crockery. Travel was now luxurious. The coached were built at the Rail Coach Factory Kapurthala to the highest standards. No effort was spared to make Rajdhanis a premier travel experience. Rollout and Impact The first Rajdhani between Delhi and Howrah launched in March 1969, cutting travel time to just 17 hours. Over the years, more Rajdhani routes were added connecting Delhi to Mumbai, Chennai, Gauhati, Thiruvananthapuram and more.  Rajdhanis became extremely popular and a symbol of modernization. State governments competed to get Rajdhani connection as it meant high prestige. With their speed and efficiency, Rajdhanis heralded new standards for long-distance trains in India. They motivated the development of better tracks, coaches, and operations. Gaining Momentum  Over the decades, Rajdhani Expresses has continued to incorporate the latest technologies – stronger engines, safer braking systems, and automatic doors.  The record time has been reduced to just 12 hours 30 minutes between Delhi and Howrah! Average speeds now touch 130-140 kmph. Rajdhanis also boast enhanced comforts like flat-screen TVs, WiFi, location updates, hygienic onboard meals, and personalised service. Legacy From just one train in 1969, there are over 20 prestigious Rajdhani routes today connecting important state capitals and cities to Delhi. Over the decades, Rajdhanis has remained a mark of efficient, comfortable long-distance travel. They connect far-flung parts of India and boost business and tourism.  The Rajdhani Express ushered India into the elite club of nations offering high-speed rail connectivity. It remains the train of choice for business travelers and a powerful symbol of a modern nation on the fast track to progress. Source-

Photo: Wikipedia  An Engineer Who Laid the Tracks for Rail Progress Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya was one of India’s most renowned engineers and statesmen. As chief engineer of the princely state of Mysore, he pioneered many railway projects that transformed Karnataka. Visvesvaraya’s vision and skills helped develop railway infrastructure that accelerated growth in the region. Engineering Expertise After studying civil engineering in England, Visvesvaraya joined the Indian Public Works Department in 1883. He gained expertise in irrigation, sanitation, and infrastructure design. It’s so inspiring to know that Visvesvaraya patented and installed an automated floodgate system at the Khadakvasla Reservoir near Pune in 1903. This secured the dam from floods for over a century. Appointed Diwan of Mysore in 1912, Visvesvaraya dedicated himself to advancing the state. His engineering knowledge drove progress in many fields. Railway Expansion One of Visvesvaraya’s main aims was to expand the rail network in Mysore State. He believed railway connectivity was key to spurring commerce and industry. Shockingly, Mysore had only 128 km of rail lines by 1901, just 2% of British India’s railway tracks! Visvesvaraya envisioned correcting this. Over the next decade, numerous new rail routes were added under his leadership. Mysore station became a key junction connecting Bangalore, Mysuru, and the western coast.  Not only that, Visvesvaraya commissioned the large Krishnarajapuram locomotive workshop in Mysore in 1923 to service locomotives. This further boosted rail infrastructure. Visionary Projects Some of Visvesvaraya’s most impactful rail projects set new benchmarks in engineering.  The 1928 Sir M. Visvesvaraya Iron Bridge over the Vedavati River was considered an architectural marvel. Its record 77-meter span made it India’s largest bowstring arch girder bridge at the time. He also conceived the scenic Mysore Hill Railway in 1908, an engineering feat involving steep gradients, curves, and viaducts. Opened in 1908, it connected Mysore city to the hill station of Chamundi Hills Legacy Thanks largely to Visvesvaraya’s efforts, Mysore’s rail network expanded from 128 km to over 500 km by 1941. Rail mileage per 100 sq km increased from 0.64 to 1.81, surpassing the national average. Beyond quantifiable progress, Visvesvaraya’s rail projects displayed his vision and innovation. He ensured high technical standards that became a model for the Indian Railways.  Truly, Visvesvaraya was an engineer and statesman who drove railway development in South India. His contributions laid the foundations for the efficient rail infrastructure and connectivity Karnataka enjoys today. He remains one of the most respected builders of modern India. Source-