New Delhi: There are several strange facts about railways in India that will make you intrigued. Like suppose, there is a train in India which you can board without a ticket. What is more, you don’t have to pay any kind of fine or penalty for that. However, there is a train in the country where passengers can board without paying a fare, the Bhakra-Nangal train. In this article, we will learn more about this exceptional train in India.
The history of the Bhakra-Nangal train
In 1948, the Bhakra-Nangal train service was established because there was no route to travel between Bhakra and Nangal when the Bhakra Nangal Dam was being constructed. It is one of the tallest and most iconic dams in India. The railway track was established to simplify the transport of both heavy machinery and people. However, it must be noted that the Indian Railways does not manage the Bhakra-Nangal train.
Originally, the train ran on steam engines, but in 1953, the train was upgraded when diesel engines brought from the United States replaced them. Despite that, the train has retained its colonial charm with wooden coaches made in Karachi. Despite their simplicity, the coaches will take you back to the trains of the British era and the journey becomes more than just a ride, something steeped in heritage and history.
The route of the Bhakra-Nangal train
The length of the Bhakra-Nangal train’s route is 13 kilometre between Punjab’s Nangal and Himachal Pradesh’s Bhakra. The train goes through the amazing landscapes of the Shivalik Hills and the Sutlej River and stop at six stations on the way. There are three tunnels that the train goes through, offering breathtaking views and an unforgettable experience.
Why is the Bhakra-Nangal train ride free?
The Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) operates the Bhakra-Nangal train. Even after all these years, the train offers completely free rides to all its passengers, due to the deliberate decision of the BBMB. Despite bearing huge operational costs with the train needing 18 liters to 20 liters of fuel every hour, the BBMB chose to keep the legacy of the train intact and today, it runs as the representation of an India which had just gained Independence from the British colonial rule.
According to reports, more than 800 passengers board the train every day, experiencing the historical charm of the Karachi-made coaches and the breathtaking beauty of the route. While it is a convenient mode of transport for the locals, tourists get to witness the Bhakra-Nangal Dam, an engineering marvel and the beauty of the Shivalik Hills. The Bhakra-Nangal train is a unique heritage of India, one that represents the legacy of this country.
The Bhakra-Nangal train, a unique Indian railway, offers free rides to all passengers. Established in 1948 to transport workers and materials for the Bhakra Nangal Dam, this 13 km route boasts stunning scenery, historic wooden coaches from Karachi, and three tunnels. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
