On a memorable day in August 1854, Railway age came to Eastern India, changing its lifestyle forever. The rains had started in Calcutta but the 15th of August was a clear day, and a bright one, as East Indian Railway’s first train driven by Joshua Greenbow commenced its inaugural commercial run from Howrah to Hooghly. The weather Gods smiled on the EIR and blessed it with a bright future.
The events, which shaped the attainment of this most desirable conclusion, and the fortunes of the EIR thereafter, make fascinating reading.
It is a matter of pride and privilege for all Indians that by an unpremeditated but a pleasant and patriotic coincidence, Eastern Railway passenger services began on the same day India was to gain independence ninety three years later !.
