It was on 19th November 1928, when the train services in 1000 mm ( Metre gauge) was inaugurated by the then South Indian railway (SIR). Sir. Percy Rothera, OBE ( order of British Empire) the then agent, SIR, Trichinopoly, played a crucial role in the MG line from Coimbatore - Podanur - Pollachi / PGT - Udamalpet - [b]Palni ( as it was spelt those days ) becoming a reality with the help of District Board Railways of Coimbatore and Madura !!!
In fact, the inauguration of the entire stretch from Podanur - Pollachi - Udamalpet - Palni to Dindigul was done in a SINGLE Day, i.e., 19th Nov 1928 !!
An...
more... extract of the photo from the book of 'Marvels of South Indian railway', compiled by respected. Shri. S. Subrahmanyam ji, then DRM of TPJ division, SR.
Pic1. Inaguration
Pic2 The image is related to a RAM fight 'kida' sandai organized at Oddanchathiram on 19/11/1928, to commemorate the NEW LINE ( MG) between Pollachi and Dindigul via UDT & 'Palni' Also, the photo has the train meandering through a curve near Oddanchathiram, and the Last van ( possibly the Inspection Car) and the then AGENT of S.I.R. Sir. Percy Rothera along with his officials, travelling.
Pic3 This photograph pertains to a reception given at Dindigul to commemorate the opening of NEW LINE between Pollachi and Dindigul on 19th Nov 1928 and Sir. Percy Rothera Agent, S.I.R. Trichinopoly and other high ranking official of Madras Presidency being prominently visible. ( Their hats are held in their respective hands. Probably the British national Anthem 'God Save the King ( or Queen, depending upon who is at the throne in helm of affairs)
Pic4 Here, in this photograph you can see, Sir. Percy Rothera, then Agent, South Indian railway, Trichinopoly ( registered in London) addressing the gathering after the inauguration. The UNION JACK at the background, and one can prominently find the pet dog
Pic5 This photograph shows the arrival of the INAUGURAL special at Dindigul jn !! Look at the hordes of people thronging the station.
