Peacock Express

Edwardian 4-6-2 CC 666 (built North British, Glasgow 1906) was in its 73rd year of service when photographed in January 1979 at Bangriposi having arrived with a relief service from Baripada.

The 2'6' gauge South Eastern Railway branch from Rupsa to Bangriposi was operated by a fleet of these smart Edwardian 4-6-2s. Aside from the obvious choice of the Darjeeling line, this was my favourite of the many narrow gauge lines I visited in India.

The loco foreman at Baripada was extremely helpful in moving locos around in suitable light for photography. In fact, back in the late 70s the whole workforce took great pride in the presentation of their fleet hence the peacock adornments - the headboard dusted off for visiting enthusiasts.

The line has subsequently been converted to broad gauge .