Mountain Locomotives: D H R (Darjeeling)
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Mountain Locomotives |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | April 16, 1993 |
| Denomination | Rs. 6 |
| Quantity | 1,000,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ x 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1388 Stamp Number IN 1444 Yvert et Tellier IN 1187 Stanley Gibbons IN 1538 |
| Themes | Locomotives | Railways |
Table of Contents
Commemorative Stamp Set: Darjeeling Himalayan Railways
Design Elements
- Stamp Design: Features a classic steam locomotive of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways, highlighting its distinct saddle and well tank type design. The backdrop includes the scenic Batasia Loop and the mountainous terrain leading to Darjeeling.
- Background: Depicts the lush hills, sharp loops, and steep gradients that the railway traverses, with key landmarks like the Ghum station.
- Text: Inscriptions detail the historical significance and unique features of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways.
Cultural and Historical Significance
- Origins: Describes the necessity-driven evolution of steam locomotives, highlighting the public skepticism towards early inventions, as voiced by Charles Dickens.
- British Influence: Chronicles the development of hill stations by the British to escape the heat of the plains, necessitating the extension of railways to these cooler climes.
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Specific details about the railway, including its start at New Jalpaiguri, the 88 km distance to Darjeeling, the 610 mm gauge, and the maximum gradient of 1 in 25. The Batasia Loop’s unique 540-degree turn and the maximum height of 2258 m at Ghum are also highlighted.
Usage
- Postal Services: Used for mailing, these stamps celebrate the historical and engineering marvels of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways.
- Commemorative Collections: Added to philatelic collections, they honor the legacy of steam locomotives in India’s hill stations.
- Educational Tools: Serve as educational materials to teach about the history and impact of steam locomotives in colonial India.
Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set
- Recognition: Acknowledges the vital role of steam locomotives in connecting remote hill stations and their contribution to India’s transportation history.
- Awareness: Raises awareness about the engineering achievements in constructing railways in challenging terrains.
- Inspiration: Encourages appreciation of historical technological advancements and their lasting legacy.
Example of the Stamp Design
The stamp design showcases a B-class 0-4-0 saddle and well tank steam locomotive navigating the Batasia Loop, with the scenic hills and sharp curves of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway in the background.
The Commemorative Stamp Set Might Include:
Significance
- Historical Context: Emphasizes the necessity-driven evolution of steam locomotives and the skepticism they initially faced.
- Public Perception: Captures the early public attitude towards steam engines, as described by notable figures like Charles Dickens.
- Hill Station Development: Chronicles the British initiative to develop hill stations for escaping the heat and the subsequent need for railway connectivity.
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Highlights the specifics of the railway, including its construction, unique features, and the steam locomotives used.
Additional Design Credits
- First Day Cover: Designed by Shankha Samantha, featuring a thematic representation of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and its scenic route.
- Cancellation Design: Created by Mervin Alexander, based on Richard Trevithick’s pioneer locomotive “Catch me who can,” run in London in 1808.
By commemorating the historic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway with a stamp set, the postal department honors the engineering marvels that revolutionized transportation in the challenging terrains of India’s hill stations, ensuring their legacy is remembered and celebrated.