ALL ABOUT RAILWAYS

Since 1853 to present, India has witnessed a miraculous change in the railway sector. On Tuesday, Indian Railways marks 171st anniversary of historic maiden journey from Boribunder to Thane.

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The history of railways in India is a testament to their crucial role in shaping the country’s economic, social, and cultural landscape. From its humble beginnings in colonial times to its status as one of the largest railway networks in the world, the Indian Railways continues to be a lifeline for millions of people every day. Today, we will provide you some insights on the glorious history of railways.

Introduction of Railways: The first railway in India was built under the British colonial rule in the mid-19th century. It was inaugurated on April 16, 1853, covering a stretch of 34 kilometers between Bombay (Mumbai) and Thane. This marked the beginning of the Indian Railways.

The history of Indian Railways goes back to 1832 when the modern plan was proposed. The innovative plan completely transformed the history of transportation of India. Though no action was taken for over a decade, in 1844 Lord Hardinge, the Governor General of India, allowed private entrepreneurs to launch the railway system.

In 1845, the Indian Railway Association was formed, which was later incorporated into the Great India Peninsula Railway (GIPR). Among the 10 directors, there were only two Indians – Sir Jamsetjee Jejeebho and Nana Shankarsheth. The first train that came on track on 22 December, 1851 was used for carrying construction material in Roorkee. It was the first steam locomotive named Thomason with 4’8.5” gauge engine, which was dedicated for transporting earthworks for the construction of the Solani canal near Roorkee. Though it had a very short life, it was still considered a pioneer that replaced horse cart with team locomotion. It was the beginning of the new era in the history of modern transportation.