Ashoka’s Steam Odyssey: Delhi Division’s Vintage Train Wows British Tourists

In a remarkable initiative, the Delhi Division of Northern Railway orchestrated a special steam train journey today, catering to 22 British tourists. The train, hauled by the vintage 1958 Steam Locomotive 7000WP, affectionately known as “ASHOKA,” featured three coaches, embarking on a nostalgic trip from Delhi Cantt. to Rewari.

Departing Delhi Cantt. at 10:52 hrs., the steam special arrived at Rewari at 13:13 hrs., offering the passengers a unique and delightful experience. The Steam Loco 7000WP, a creation of Fabryka Lokomotyw in Poland, showcased its historical significance, drawing admiration from the British steam enthusiasts on board.

Expressing their appreciation, the British tourists commended Indian Railways for preserving such heritage assets and providing an opportunity to relish the charm of steam travel. Following the journey, the foreign visitors explored the Heritage Steam Shed in Rewari, where they were impressed by the dedicated efforts of Northern Railway Delhi Division in heritage asset preservation.

At the steam shed, the tourists had the chance to visit the steam museum, souvenir shop, and witness working steam models like Yuganter and Antim Sitara. They were also treated to a glimpse of the world’s oldest working steam locomotive, Fairy Queen, and a 1921 vintage Edward coach. The visit concluded with the screening of a documentary movie on the Heritage Steam Shed in Rewari.

Sukhvinder Singh, DRM Delhi, highlighted the significance of the event, mentioning that this heritage trip for foreigners marked a memorable continuation of similar initiatives, the last of which occurred on February 15, 2020.