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Bundelkhand’s 124 year old ‘Adda’ shuttle train runs not according to time but according to the needs of the passengers and also stops on hand signal. Despite the slow speed, it is still traveling with familiarity and trust by becoming the lifeline of farmers, students and local people.
This 124 year old train stops as soon as you show your hand
Today’s India is dreaming of high-speed trains. Speedy trains like Vande Bharat and Bullet Train are running like lightning on the tracks. Everywhere there is talk of speed, timing and technology. But even in this modern era, a train runs in Bundelkhand, Uttar Pradesh, which runs not according to the time but according to the needs of the people. This train not only takes the passengers to their destination, but also carries with them a sense of belonging and trust.
This small shuttle train running between Ait Junction and Konch in Jalaun district is fondly called ‘Adda’ by the local people. This is not an ordinary train, but has become a part of the lives of the people here. There is no need to run to the platform to catch it. Stand on the side of the track and wave, and the train will stop. It may sound strange, but this is the tradition here.
124 years old history
This unique train was started in the year 1902 during the British rule. From then till today the same shuttle is running on this short route of about 13 kilometers long. The most important thing is that its form has not changed even after so many years. Earlier also it had three coaches and even today it travels with only three coaches. Whereas in other trains, strict action is taken against delay or chain pulling, the rules of this shuttle are very humane. If a passenger is seen running from a distance, the guard immediately signals the driver. The speed of the train is reduced so that the passengers can board comfortably. Here people are not considered train passengers but family members.
Slow pace, but strong support
This train runs at a speed of about 30 km per hour and takes about 40 minutes to cover the distance of 13 kilometers. But this ‘slow pace’ is no less than a lifeline for the farmers, students and small traders here. From Eight Junction they get trains to big cities, which makes their daily life easier. Today, when the whole world is in a race to move forward fast, this ‘Adda’ shuttle teaches that the journey is not just about reaching the destination, but also about supporting people on the way. Conch-et Shuttle is still running with the same simplicity, trust and love. This is the reason why this train has become the pride and identity of Bundelkhand.