In November 2004 I joined three other photographers to see the Jitong Railway located in Inner Mongolia. The new line was opened in 1995 and ran double-headed QJ class 2-10-2 steam locmotives on all freight trains until 2000. Diesels gradually took over until Autumn 2005 when the line was fully dieselized. It was the world’s last steam-operated mainline. Our group focused on JinPeng Pass, where the terrain demanded much of the railway. Numerous tunnels and spectacular viaducts add to the drama of the line. Signaling was provided by electrically interlocked semaphore signals. These were replaced by modern color light signals after 2005.
Eastbound train exiting tunnel at Hadashan
Eastbound train passing ErDi village, as woman carries firewood up the street.
Pulling a train upgrade on Jingpeng Pass. Inner Mongolia, Nov. 2004
Train pauses to take on water.
Water and coal are taken on to complete the trip.
Early morning crossing over river at Reshui
Locomotives being serviced at sundown, Daban.
Train passing the town of Reshui
Animals did not seem disturbed by the passing freight train. ErDi village.
