Archive · 1 Aug 2025
Vizag Locomotives Tell Story of India's Railway History
Imagine old trains telling stories!
In Visakhapatnam, two old train engines are on display.
These engines belonged to a special train company called the PLR, started by a Maharaja way back in 1899.
The Maharaja used his own money to build the train line.
The trains helped people in the area, especially those living in poverty.
These engines are like memories of the past, showing how people built and connected the region by train.
They show how one person’s dream of a train line helped build the region.
Two historic locomotives in Visakhapatnam showcase the history of Indian Railways and the Parlakimidi Light Railway (PLR).
The PLR, founded in 1899 by Maharaja Gaurachandra Gajapati Narayan Dev, was the first individually owned rail company in India.
The Maharaja invested ₹7 lakh of his personal funds to establish the rail company, and later his son extended the line.
The PLR served the poverty-ridden north Andhra region, particularly Srikakulam district.
Two PL-class locomotives built by the Brush Electrical Engineering Company, England, are now displayed in Visakhapatnam.
- Who
- Maharaja Gaurachandra Gajapati Narayan Dev founded the PLR.
- What
- The story of the Parlakimidi Light Railway and its locomotives.
- When
- The PLR was founded in 1899.
- Where
- Visakhapatnam, India.
- Why
- To spur development and connect the region.
- Rail Company Name
- Parlakimidi Light Railway (PLR)
- Founder
- Maharaja Gaurachandra Gajapati Narayan Dev
- Foundation Year
- 1899
- Original Investment
- ₹7 lakh
- Locomotive Class
- PL-class
- Manufacturer
- Brush Electrical Engineering Company, England