On the 7th of August, 2023, a walk through the heritage gullies 1 & 2 at the CSMT brought alive the rich tapestry of India's railway history.
First, there stood the impressive KYN WCG-2 20158, a locomotive that once dominated the challenging terrains of the Bhor and Thull ghats, a testament to the robustness of Indian railway engineering.
Next...
more... was the locomotive initially designated as EF/14502 but later known as the KYN WCG/1 20067. Famously named 'Sir Leslie Wilson', it is often affectionately referred to as the 'Crocodile' or 'Krokodil' due to its unique appearance and power.
The heritage lane also showcased a Lifting & Hauling Steam Crane with an impressive capacity of 30 tons, standing as a symbol of the heavy-duty engineering marvels from yesteryears.
Nearby was an antique Concrete Mixer, used in the construction of many a rail project, adjacent to a Concrete Slab Machine, which had shaped the infrastructure of many stations.
The Knapping Motion Stone Breaker, with its sturdy design, spoke volumes of the manual labor and craftsmanship that went into laying the tracks.
A nod to the communication history was the Albion Printing Press, reminding visitors of a time when communication was not as instant as it is today.
Emergency response in the olden days was represented by a Hand tub Fire Engine, showcasing the primary firefighting equipment of that era.
Adding to the ensemble was the BG Coach 2418 ERB, a Non-AC Saloon Cum Inspection Car, which once played a pivotal role in the oversight of railway operations.
For transporting perishable goods, there stood the BG Wagon 77918 BC, a reminder of how critical the railways have been in ensuring fresh produce reaches every corner of the nation.
The Rail Bus No. 30018 WRB1 gave a glimpse into an era of rail-based public transportation that once graced the Indian tracks.
Lastly, reinforcing the importance of heavy machinery in the railways, was another BG Steam Lifting & Hauling Crane with a 30-ton capacity.
The entire experience was a vivid journey through time, illuminating the milestones and the machinery that made Indian Railways the lifeline that it is today.
