Purulia Express: লালপাহাড়ীর দ‍্যাশে যাবি? চিন্তা কিসের লো? বিকাল বেলা হাওড়া থেকে পুরুল্যা এক্সপেরেস পাবি। - Dip

A historic train journey for 5 admins of IRI was set to commence from HWH at 5.45 pm on Sunday, the 3rd March, 2013. The fortunate 5 were Broad Gauge, Sabyasachi, Sourabh, Arkya Chatterjee, the video whizkid, and the author, PKV. Our mission was to participate in the ‘CLOSED’ ADMIN MEET at Varanasi and more importantly undertake a visit to the Diesel Locomotive Works at Varanasi, arranged by the courtesy of my ex-employer, State Bank of India. Invitations to be a part of this enriching experience were extended to select admins, based on MY PERSONAL CHOICE. Those admins who were approached by me and evinced interest in being a part of this educational trip for a railfan, were finally shortlisted. Their names, addresses and mobile numbers were forwarded along with a request letter to the DLW authorities, who were, prima facie, agreeable to the visit. But the final seal of approval...
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was received as late as the 27th February only after the local branch of SBI had recommended our case. However, out of the original group of 15, there were 5 dropouts at the last minute, due to pressing engagements and other official/family commitments. Hence the final team stood trimmed to 10 members.We assembled at Howrah one full hour before the scheduled departure in an effort to enjoy a bit of railfanning. (To be contd……)