From Bullocks to Steam: The Journey of India's First Narrow Gauge Railway

In 1862, India witnessed a marvel The first narrow gauge railway, an 8-mile stretch in Baroda State, pulled not by engines but by bullocks!

Maharaja Khanderao Gaekwad of Baroda envisioned this railway to connect Dabhoi and Miyagam, revolutionizing transport in his princely state.

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By 1863, locomotives replaced oxen. Stronger rails were laid in 1873, paving the way for steam engines to take over by 1880.

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Under Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, the network grew to connect regions like Chandod and Bodeli, making Dabhoi a central hub.

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To honor this unique history, a special "Bullock Tram Carried Cover" was issued on December 17, 2009, in Vadodara. It was carried on a replica of the Bullock Tram!

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After serving for over a century, this historic line was sadly closed in 2018 for broad gauge conversion. Its legacy now lives in history books and commemorative covers.

This railway boosted trade and connectivity, marking a turning point in India's industrial history. It was Asia's first narrow gauge line!

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While some narrow gauge lines are preserved for heritage tourism, the Dabhoi-Miyagam line sadly missed this opportunity.

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Dive into India's rich railway history and discover stories that shaped our nation. Explore philatelic tributes like the carried cover to keep the memory alive!

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