The historic Metre gauge line from Kollam (Quilon) Junction to Sengottai (Schencottah) became extinct on 2007-04-30, after an illustrious life of 103 years. The section between Kollam Jn and Punalur is to be converted to Broad Gauge. No final verdict has come on the Punalur-Sengottai stretch, which is trying for a World Heritage Railway status. The scenery along this line is so enchanting it is often referred to as "Queen of Indian Metre Gauge lines". This is indeed the last fully documented trip on this unique line. Please refer this report on history of this line
YDM 4 6312 prepares to depart Kollam Jn with the Kollam-Tirunelveli exp. The train is a truncated avatar of erstwhile Madras-Quilon mail
As we wait to depart to Kollam on the early morning on 2007-04-20 to undertake the trip, Ernakulam Jn, so full of electrics everyday, suddenly turns to be a diesel lover's paradise. Stray WDP 3A 15515 is heading the Ernakulam-Guruvayoor Passenger
More diesels coming into the station. Kazipet's stray Raj liveried 16704 heads Patna - Ernakulam Express
A unique feature of the double line between Kayamkulam and Kollam - two lines are at different levels, meaning there is a level cross on one while there is a bridge on the other
The old railway station at Kollam. Built under supervision of Maharajah Balarama-I of Travancore. It is fit to be called a palace. So sad this heritage structure is in ruins now
A close up of the magnificient porch of the old station
Compare the old station with the bland new station with no architectural identity. Note the blue foot over bridge striking out
The steam crane called Vikrant based at Kollam has been steamed up!
Kollam Jn is undegoing many changes. This is the old platform , which was once the metre gauge terminus. This is being redone at a whooping cost of Rs. 2 crore
Kollam Jn from the railway end. Note the design of the old station
The entire broad gauge section of Kollam Jn set amidst electric pole jungle
The Travancore maharajah's waiting room is in tatters and is now gang men's rest room. The official rest room of the highest official in a kingdom is now rest room of the lowest official in the railway
The official emblem of Travancore Maharajah, the shell is still striking out from the building
A nice old crane near the maharajah's waiting room. There is a track reconditioning yard here
The arrival / departure board at Kollam Jn. There is no mention of any metre gauge trains. Has the staff forgotten the tiny tots since they will be taken off from service in 10 days time?