Question 1

Between which two stations did the first passenger train in India run on April 16, 1853?

Accepted Answer

Bombay and Thane. The first passenger train ran for a distance of approximately 34 kilometers between Bombay's Bori Bunder and Thane. It was pulled by three locomotives named Sahib, Sindh, and Sultan. This event marked the formal birth of rail transport in the Indian subcontinent.

Question 2

In which year was the 'Railway Board' formally constituted in India?

Accepted Answer

1905. The Railway Board was established in 1905 to provide centralized administration and supervision of the various rail networks. Its formation followed the recommendations of the Thomas Robertson Committee report. Today, it remains the apex administrative body for the entire Indian national carrier.

Question 3

Which Governor-General is often credited with the introduction of railways in India?

Accepted Answer

Lord Dalhousie. Lord Dalhousie is considered the father of the Indian network for his detailed 1853 minute proposing a massive expansion. He envisioned the railway as a means to integrate the country politically and economically. Under his tenure, the first commercial rail project was successfully launched.

Question 4

In which city was the first electric train in India introduced in 1925?

Accepted Answer

Bombay. The first electric train ran between Bombay VT and Kurla on the Great Indian Peninsula Railway. It operated on a 1500 Volt DC traction system to handle the heavy urban traffic. This milestone marked the beginning of modern, sustainable mass transit in India.

Question 5

Following the Acworth Committee recommendations in 1924, what major change occurred in the budget system?

Accepted Answer

The railway budget was separated from the general budget. The separation of budgets in 1924 ensured that railway earnings could be reinvested specifically into rail infrastructure. This system remained in practice for nearly 92 years before being reverted in 2017. The move aimed to protect the financial stability of the transport sector from general economic shifts.

History & Milestones — Set 1