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The Fairy Queen

Interesting facts and features

Built in 1855 by Kitson, Thompson & Hewitson, UK, for the then East Indian Railway (EIR)

  • weight: 26 tonnes
  • coal tender : 20 tonnes
  • water capacity : 2,000 litres (underslung water tank)
  • horse power : 130
  • gauge : 5′ 6″ or 1.67 m (broad gauge)
  • wheel arrangement 2-2-2, driving wheel diameter 1800mm
  • max speed: 40 km/h
  • cylinders: 2 outside (12″ x 22″)

Earlier worked from Howrah to Raniganj (121 miles) on EIR

  • 1908 Stopped service
  • 1971 First exhibit at National Rail Museum
  • 1996 Completely overhauled in Perambur workshops of Southern Railway
  • Revived for working on main line. Chair Car for carrying 60 passengers and service car including generator and compressor (air brakes) readied for the engine to work commercial trips.
  • 18 July 1997 First commercial trip.
  • 31 January 1998 Certification of Guinness Book of Records as the world’s oldest working locomotive.
  • 25 January 1999 National Tourism Award given by the Prime Minister of India for the most innovative and unique tourism project.

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