Historical and iconic photos of Indian Railways

Railways were first introduced to India in 1853. By 1947, the year of India's independence, there were 42 rail systems. In 1951 the systems were nationalised as one unit, the Indian Railways, becoming one of the largest networks in the world. Indian Railways operates both long distance and suburban rail systems on a multi-gauge network of broad, metre and narrow gauges. It also owns locomotive and coach production facilities. Let's have a look at some historical and iconic photos of the railway network. 

First Great Indian Peninsula Railway EMU. 

Inauguration of electric traction by GIPR, 1925

GIPR's Wadi Bunder viaduct, Mumbai, 1925. 

Poster of the Deccan Queen, 1930. 

Steam-hauled train ascending the Bhore Ghat, 1929

Poona Mail at the then-new Poona station.

The Frontier Mail on Old Vasai Creek bridge, Maharashtra. 

South Indian Railway's electric locomotive with battery tender in 1931. 

Trial run of a double decker car built by Indian Coach Factory. 

Three hundred horsepower new diesel Tisco #25, 1936. 

The notings on the reverse of the photograph says 'Ice for the air conditioned coach of the Frontier Mail -1' Bayana Junction, Rajasthan, 11-9-42. 

The air conditioned coach of Frontier Mail at Ratlam Junction. The notings on the reverse of the photograph says 'Ratlam Junction' 11-9-42. 

This photograph was taken at Chalisgaon, Maharashtra, of the Frontier Mail. Notings on the reverse 'Chalisgaon, 2.9.42 

The notings on the reverse says 'Yours Truly watching the passing pageant!', Lakheri, Rajasthan, September 11th, 1942.