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171 Years Of Indian Railways! The First Passenger Train Ran From Bori Bunder To Thane On This Day

A historic trip from Bori Bunder(now Mumbai CST) to Thane covering a distance of 34 kilometres.

by Nikitha Sebastian
171 Years Of Indian Railways! The First Passenger Train Ran From Bori Bunder To Thane On This Day

This week, Indian Railways marked a momentous occasion – the 171st anniversary of its very first train journey. On April 16th, 1853, a locomotive named Sahib, alongside Sultan and Sindh, hauled 14 carriages carrying around 400 passengers on a historic trip from Bori Bunder (now Mumbai CST) to Thane, a distance of 34 kilometres. This inaugural journey marked the beginning of a transportation revolution that would forever change the landscape of India.

A Historic Inaugural Journey For Indian Railways

The Central Railway posted an old photo on X to commemorate the event. It stated, “In 1853, exactly 171 years ago today, India marked a significant milestone in transportation history with the inaugural journey of the first train from Bori Bunder to Thane. This pivotal moment heralded a new era of connectivity that shaped the nation’s future.”

The story of Indian Railways goes back even further. The concept of a railway system was proposed in British India as early as 1832. However, it wasn’t until 1844 that private companies were granted permission to establish railway lines. The success of the Mumbai-Thane route paved the way for rapid expansion, with the network reaching new cities and regions across the subcontinent.

Also read: Indian Railways’ 100-Day Plan: From Bullet Train To Vande Bharat Sleeper, All About The Plan For New Govt

Embracing Innovation

Over the past 171 years, Indian Railways has undergone a remarkable transformation. From the iconic steam engines of the early days to the sleek, modern Vande Bharat trains, the network has embraced innovation at every turn. Electrification of routes has significantly improved efficiency and reduced reliance on fossil fuels. Today, Indian Railways boasts the fourth-largest railway network in the world, connecting millions of people every day.

Indian Railways pulsates through India as the “lifeline of the nation.” It offers an economical and efficient way to move both people and goods across the vast country. From bustling megacities to remote villages, trains weave through the vast Indian landscape, fostering trade, tourism, and social interaction.

Also Read: Railway Revolution: Railways To Introduce High-Tech Odour Detectors To Ensure Cleaner Train Journeys

Looking ahead, Indian Railways continues to strive for progress. Plans are underway to further expand the network, introduce high-speed bullet trains, and integrate modern technologies for improved passenger experience. As India marches forward, its railways are sure to remain a vital part of its economic and social fabric, carrying the legacy of that first journey from Mumbai to Thane for generations to come.

Cover Image Courtesy: @central_railway/ Instagram

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