Class M1

Class M1 was the first locomotive in the Class "M" family, Until this locomotive was imported this locomotive was imported all trains were operated by steam engines. This means Class M1 was the first Diesel Electric train engine in Sri Lanka.

This locomotive was imported under the supervision of Mr. B.D. Rampala, Who was the chief mechanical engineer at that time, He was a very respected person in Sri Lankan Railways. These engines were imported from the UK to this country to replace steam locomotives and to use on the Upcountry railway line.

Specifications

Imported Country - UK
Manufactured Company - Brush Bagnall
Imported Number - 25
Imported Year - 1953
Type - Diesel Electric
Powered Engine - Mirrlees V12 JS12VT ( 4 stroke )
Maximum Power - 880 horsepower
Maximum Speed - 88 kmph (54 miles per hour )
Axel Arrangement - A1A - A1A
Weight - 88 tons
Colour - Red

The first Class M1 engine was engine number 539, The last 563. These engines were sometimes double headed ( 2 engines coupled together ) and were used to haul trains. It also has the "Dual Cabins" ( There is a driver's cabin on both sides of the train ) therefore, the engine can travel both ways without turning the engine.

Running Lines

Class M1 was mostly used on the Upcountry railway line. There are records that it was used on the Northern and Southern Railway lines as well, It may have travelled on the Matale Railway line but I'm not quite sure if it did.

Trains Hauling

Class M1 used to haul the Udarata Menike and Yaal Devi Express which are the most popular trains known which Class M1 used to haul. It is stated that it hauled the Queen Elizabeth's special train when she arrived in Sri Lanka.

Where is Class M1 now ?

Class M1 contributed a huge service to Sri Lankan railways for 3 decades ( 1953 - 1983 ). Class M1 560 is currently set on display at the national railway museum in Kadugannawa, Kandy. You can get on to the cabin of the train and sit on the seats and enjoy !