For rail enthusiasts, who want to re-live (re-ride) the Raj era trains and associated systems, there is no place like Sri Lanka. Most of Sri Lanka is trapped in this past, barring a few busy stretches in the Western corridor. The only element missing from the British era is the steam engine; all trains in Sri Lanka now run on diesel power heads.
The uniforms of the Guard and the Station Master too are from the same era — black and white overcoats respectively. Many of the engine drivers in the Raj era were Burghers — and share great similarities with the Anglo-Indians, many of who were also engine drivers — but the tribe has dwindled, like in India.
The signals, block instruments, keys — almost all elements have remained trapped in the past. India, on the other hand, has chugged ahead, preferring to replace nostalgia with modern-day efficiency. Nostalgic journeys in India are now restricted to places like Darjeeling and Udhagamandalam; and to a few special days when the Raj era engines are given a fresh coat of paint and run for short distances.
Rail-scape is changing in Sri Lanka too, mostly because India is helping rebuild the non-existent Northern Railway, and parts of the busy Southern Railway. In years from now, most of Sri Lanka will have the newer, faster trains, which gets a person from point A to point B quicker. There will soon be no time left for the leisurely indulgence of the Raj era.
