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-

Photo: Wikipedia  The Heartbeat Connecting a Megacity  Mumbai’s iconic suburban rail network has an incredible history. Built from 1853 onwards, it is one of the oldest urban transport systems in Asia. The locals have played a pivotal role in shaping India’s financial capital and its economy by serving as the city’s lifeline.  First Railway in India  Isn’t it fascinating that the first passenger railway in India ran between Bori Bunder and Thane in 1853? This 34 km link between Mumbai and Thane was built by the Great Indian Peninsula (GIP) Railway. Shockingly, within a decade, suburban lines expanded north to Kalyan and south to Colaba along the Western line by 1867. By 1930, a comprehensive suburban rail network had developed.  Not only that, the British opened the first railway terminus, VT Victoria Terminus (now Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus), in Mumbai in 1888. It became the headquarters of the GIP Railway. Connecting a Growing City As Bombay evolved into a thriving port city and industrial center in the 1900s, local trains became vital for the workforce.  Dense suburban networks with multiple stations connected factories, mills, and docks to residential areas across the city and extended suburbs.  You’ll be shocked to know Mumbai locals ferry over 80 lakh passengers daily today to 467 stations! That’s more daily ridership than many megacities’ entire populations. Fueling Prosperity  The suburban rail network played a key role in Bombay’s economic boom and population growth. It enabled the efficient movement of people and goods. Local trains allowed the city to spread northwards and integrate commercial hubs like Bandra, Andheri, and Borivali with South Bombay.   Truly, the Mumbai Suburban Railway has been the force driving the city’s expansion and rise as India’s financial powerhouse. It is the city’s dependable, indefatigable lifeline. The Railway of the Aam Aadmi With fares as low as Rs 10-15, almost everyone relies on the locals. The network stitches together people from all walks of life.  Over the decades, the trains have embedded deeply into Mumbai’s culture and spirit. Stories about Mumbai locals abound in films, books, and music that celebrate the city.  Hardworking, resilient, and always on the move, like the city they serve, Mumbai locals are the beating heart that keeps this megacity connected and alive. Source-

Photo: Hindustan Times  Food on the Move, The Evolution of Train Dining in India From hearty meals on long journeys to a quick snack on a short trip, food has always been an essential part of the rail experience. Onboard catering and dining services on Indian trains have come a long way since the first railway catering service started in the 1920s.  Early Days In the 19th century, passengers had to carry their own food as trains had no pantry cars or kitchens. Some longer trains halted for hot cooked meals at select stations.  Are you aware that the first dining car providing meals onboard appeared in 1925 on the GIP Railways between Bombay and Peshawar? This introduced the concept of train catering. You’ll be shocked to know early dining cars were like luxury restaurants with attentive waiters and fine crockery. The menu included European dishes like roast chicken, cutlets, soup, and desserts. Self-service cafeterias were added in 1930 for affordable food. These evolutions made long train journeys more comfortable. Food for the Masses After Independence, catering received a boost under the first Minister for Railways, Lal Bahadur Shastri. He started the Janata Khana service in 1951, providing affordable vegetarian meals for all classes.  Not only that, the menu was expanded to include regional dishes like idlis, parathas, biryanis, rajma-chawal, and sambhar-vada. This made train food more accessible and reflective of India’s diversity. By the 1990s, most long-distance trains had pantry cars with kitchens. Onboard dining had become an expected amenity.  Modern Amenities  Today, Indian Railways has over 400 kitchens and 60,000 staff providing meals for millions daily. Catering facilities and menus have expanded greatly.  Premium trains like Rajdhanis and Shatabdis offer complimentary gourmet meals with global and local delicacies. There are refrigerated food vans and equipment for cooking, and packaging meals hygienically.  With apps like e-catering, food can be ordered to your seat. Some trains, like the Maharaja Express, even have onboard chefs. There’s still room for improving quality and service. But train catering has come a long way in making journeys more comfortable through the years. From simple meals to fine dining, food remains integral to the rail experience. Source-

Featured Image Source: flickr Shatabdi and Duronto: Fast-Tracking India’s Intercity Connectivity Connecting major cities with convenient train services has been crucial for India’s growth. The Shatabdi and Duronto Express trains have been game-changers in intercity travel since the 1980s. With airplane-like speeds and services, they have helped cities feel closer. Need for Speedy Urban Links  Did you know earlier that it took 5-6 hours to travel between cities just 200-300 km apart? Stopping at multiple stations made journeys longer. By the 1980s, India wanted to provide airport-like direct intercity trains. Shatabdis connecting metros like Delhi-Agra and Durontos linking distant state capitals were conceived. Shockingly, when launched in 1988, Shatabdis touched top speeds of 140-150 kmph, drastically cutting travel times between cities. Luxury Travel Arrives Shatabdis boasted airplane-style seats, and pantry cars with catering, LCDs, and WiFi. This luxury made travel between cities feel effortless. Not only that, Durontos added comfortable sleepers and AC coaches in 2009. Traveling overnight between cities is now possible while you sleep. With enhanced safety and punctuality, Shatabdi and Durontos became extremely popular for business and leisure trips. Expanding Connectivity From just 1 in 1988, over 50 Shatabdi routes are crisscrossing India. Key connections include Delhi-Chandigarh, Mumbai-Pune, Chennai-Bengaluru, and Howrah-Patna. You’ll be shocked to know that Shatabdis covers 1200-1600 km in just 8-12 hours with minimal stops. Similarly, Duronto Expresses links 12 major long-distance city pairs overnight, like Mumbai-Delhi, Delhi-Jammu, Pune-Patna.  Reducing Urban Isolation With Shatabdis and Durontos, cities feel much closer today. The business has boomed as corporate centers become more accessible. Tourism between cities has risen as visits can be covered over a weekend. Pilgrimage hubs like Vaishno Devi near Jammu also draw more pilgrims.  Medical, educational, and entertainment hubs in metros have widened their catchment areas thanks to easier connectivity.   Truly, Shatabdi and Duronto have fast-tracked urban India’s progress by revolutionizing intercity connections. Traveling between cities is easier than ever before. Source-