Historic Railway Relic 'Sir Leslie Wilson' Lies in Neglect at Lonavla Station, Sparking Heritage Concerns

A significant piece of India's railway heritage, the 123-tonne locomotive 'Sir Leslie Wilson,' named after the former Governor of Bombay, is currently languishing in a state of neglect outside Lonavla station. This engine, which arrived in Mumbai in 1928, played a pivotal role in the region's transportation history, notably hauling iconic trains such as the Deccan Queen before being withdrawn from service in the 1950s. Its current condition raises critical questions about the preservation of historical artefacts and the broader implications for cultural heritage management. The locomotive's deterioration highlights a pressing need for systematic conservation efforts and policy interventions to safeguard such invaluable assets. This situation underscores the challenges faced in balancing modernization with heritage conservation, urging stakeholders to reassess priorities and implement robust preservation frameworks. The 'Sir Leslie Wilson' serves as a poignant reminder of the rich historical legacy embedded in India's railway infrastructure, necessitating immediate attention to prevent further degradation and ensure its legacy endures for future generations.