In 1864, Bengaluru heard its first train whistle; the city’s 149-km railway line connected Cantonment with Jolarpettai, opening a rail link to the wider network

Bengaluru received its first steam locomotive service connecting Cantonment to Jolarpettai. This 149-km line provided a vital link to the wider British Indian railway network. The Madras Railway Company operated the initial passenger service, known as the Bangalore Mail. Early railways served military needs and facilitated troop movement and administration. The railway system later expanded, connecting Bengaluru to southern India’s growing network.