The British Raj began expanding in India in the mid-eighteenth century, and by the middle of the nineteenth century, they had completely subdued this vast land. It was a time of rapid change, not only in India but across the world. One of the most significant forces driving these changes was the Industrial Revolution, which had begun in Britain in the late eighteenth century and gradually spread to other parts of the globe. Astonishing progress was made in every field of human life, particularly in transport. The steam engine, perfected in the 1830s for hauling heavy loads on railways, revolutionized industry and commerce. Its importance in defense too was quickly recognized. Soon, there was a worldwide race to construct railway lines as extensively and rapidly as possible.
The British introduced this technology to India, and the first railway line was laid between Bombay and Nasik in 1853. Gradually, the network spread to all four corners of the subcontinent. By 1880, the railways had reached the Indus River at Attock.
Attock is renowned for its strategic location on the River Indus. Recognizing this, Emperor Akbar built a massive fort to control the crossing at this critical point and to defend India against invasions from the northwest. Our focus here, however, is not the fort itself but the nearby Attock Khurd Railway Station—small, beautifully built, and well maintained. Some even call it the most beautiful railway station in Pakistan. Without debating the point, one can certainly agree that it is among the finest.
The uniqueness of this station lies in its location. It sits just 300 meters from the river, at 33°52'24.8"N, 72°14'27.3"E, to the west of the mighty Attock Fort. It is accessible via a road leading off the Grand Trunk Road, about 4 kilometers away. At the entrance, you pass through a gate and an army checkpoint, where identification is required before proceeding toward the station. Do keep in mind that this road passes close to the fort, which is a restricted military area, and photography is strictly prohibited
The nearby bridge was designed by Sir Guildford Molesworth and reconstructed in 1929, perhaps to accommodate the increasing weight of traffic. Built with massive iron girders, it stands as a remarkable example of engineering. The structure has two levels: the upper deck for trains and the lower deck once used for vehicular traffic. However, with the construction of two modern bridges about 2.5 kilometers upstream, it is now reserved only for motorcycles and pedestrians. From its height, the view of the Indus River winding through the rugged, rocky terrain is nothing short of breathtaking.
Besides the Victorian-style building, another attraction of the station is its small museum, which is an added delight for tourists. Many old gadgets used in communication and railway operations are on display. Among the prominent exhibits is a model of a railway engine.
Tariq Amir
January 17, 2022.
Islamabad
For a related post, visit:
139. Golra Railway Station and Museum, Islamabad.
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