The only Indian train that does not require a ticket and is free for the last 75 years!
With more than 13,000 trains running every day in India, this one train has been providing free services to all its passengers for the last 75 years. Read this to know more.
The only Indian train that does not require tickets and has been offering free travel for 75 years! (Image: Canva)
The Indian train network is known for its excellent connectivity. Indian Railways operates more than 13,000 trains on a daily basis. Lakhs of people avail these services on a regular basis, not many know that there is a train in India which has been providing free service to its passengers for the last 75 years. Yes, you heard that right! This train is free for all its passengers.
As per the normal procedure, when you travel by train, you have to buy a ticket online or offline from Indian Railways. But you do not need to buy a ticket for this one train.
Bhakra-Nangal TrainIn service for 75 years, travels a distance of 13 km between Nangal, Punjab and Bhakra, Himachal Pradesh. It passes over the picturesque Sutlej River and Shivalik Hills. The train was originally used to transport laborers and supplies for the construction of the Bhakra-Nangal Dam. It has been operational since 1948.
In 1953, it received a major upgrade when American-imported diesel engines replaced it. Despite their simplicity, the seats are an integral part of the experience, reflecting the train’s long history.
There are several reasons why this train is free. While the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) has considered charging a fare due to the operational costs – about 18 to 20 liters of fuel is consumed every hour – the decision to keep it fare-free was made out of respect for the train’s heritage. It represents much more than a means of transportation as it is a living piece of history and tradition.
According to reports, more than 800 people use the train every day. It remains a popular and convenient way to travel for many people. The best part is that tourists can see the stunning Bhakra-Nangal Dam, one of the highest dams in India, and the picturesque Shivalik Hills.
Every day the train leaves Nangal Railway Station at 7:05 am and reaches Bhakra at 8:20 am. In its return journey, the train departs from Nangal at 3:05 pm and drops passengers at Bhakra railway station at 4:20 pm.
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