International Railroad Discussion > Some Colombian Narrow Gauge March 2014

I had a chance to visit Bogota, Colombia and spend three days with Tourist Tren operation out of Bogota. We rode on Saturday in the Swedish Raicar that is used on days of light loads. Then on Sunday we rode behind 2-8-2 #72 on the regular steam run. Monday we got a tour of the shops, courtesy of Dr. Edwardo Rodriquez the owner of the Tourist Tren. Dr. Rodriquez bought nearly a dozen steam locos when the Government started to liquidate the railway holdings. He selected the best of the stored steam. Most of the other locos were scrapped. In total there are 49 preserved steam locomotives. Two private companies have concessions to operate parts of the former National Railroad System. Since there is a election for President coming up, a concession to repair the idle sections of the railroad has started. Exactly what the long term prospects for this being successful restart of operations will take some time.

Dale Brown
www.wingsandrails.com



Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 04/29/14 17:49 by DWBrown.

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At Zipaquira, Colombia 58 km from Bogota and end of the steam run. Some view of the locomotive at watertank and station.

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Some shots at the Usaquen Station in Bogota. This is Monday-Friday Commuter train that is operated for High School Students. The students attend the Military University outside Bogota about a 45 Km run. Train leaves Bogota about 7am in the morning and makes two stops. Then returns to Bogota at near 5:30 PM.This is a contracted service and has several hundred students on board. A U-10-B is power and cars are former National Railway System coaches that have modified seating along the walls in some cars.

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Excellent!

Steve Mitchell
http://www.yardgoatimages.com

Thanks that was most interesting.

Here are some views of the Sabana Shops and equipment. Photo one a Bertram Wheel lathe. Photo 2 & 3 2-8-2 #75 beginning rebuild process. New flues and bearings. General overhaul of loco for return to service. There are 4 steam locos availalble for service. One is privately owned and available for charter.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 04/29/14 10:23 by DWBrown.

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Interesting photos, thanks for posting. Are the Colombian tracks meter or 3 foot gauge?

All 3 foot gauge.

Here is some photos of the Swedish railcar that has been restored to operation. It has been modified in the forward cabin to accomodate a new under floor motor. The roof has been raised.

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