Satyanarayan Mohapatra
Imagine a train journey where the ticket collector never comes, where the fare is always free, and the scenic route winds through the majestic Shivalik mountains. This isn't a fantasy – it's the reality of the Bhakra-Nangal railway service, a unique and heartwarming chapter in India's railway history. For 75 years, this extraordinary train has been carrying passengers between Bhakra and Nangal without charging a single rupee, making it a beloved symbol of community and service.
Born out of necessity in 1948, during the construction of the colossal Bhakra Nangal Dam, this railway line was initially meant to transport heavy machinery and workers. With no existing roads connecting these two vital points, the railway became a lifeline, facilitating the construction of a dam that would transform the region. But what began as a practical solution soon blossomed into something more – a free service for all, embodying the spirit of unity and shared progress.
Operated not by Indian Railways, but by the Bhakra Beas Management Board, this "people's train" has witnessed the passage of time, carrying generations of families, farmers, and even their goats. Initially powered by steam engines, it was modernized in 1953 with the acquisition of three diesel engines from America. Today, it continues its daily journey, traversing 27.3 km of picturesque landscape, including two horseshoe-shaped tunnels and a breathtaking 158.5-meter high rail-cum-road bridge.
This is the story of India's only ticketless train, a testament to the enduring power of community spirit and a unique legacy that continues to chug along, offering free rides and warm memories to all who board it.
