Ep 3. India's Monsoon Railway

Chris Tarrant: Extreme Railways season 1 episode 3 titled "India's Monsoon Railway" takes viewers on a thrilling ride through one of the world's most extreme railway systems during the country's monsoon season. Chris Tarrant sets out to discover how the Indian Railways manage to operate during a time where the monsoon wreaks havoc on the Indian subcontinent.

The episode begins with Tarrant in Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tarrant boards the Konkan Railway, which is known for its spectacular views of the Western Ghats mountain range and crystal-clear sea views. During the monsoon season, however, the railway line is constantly at risk of landslides and flooding.

Tarrant takes a journey through the heart of India's monsoon season aboard the train, meeting locals and railway workers who make the Konkan Railway run. He watches as engineers battle against the elements to keep the line running and explores the small towns and villages that are connected by the railway. Tarrant also visits Ratnagiri, a small coastal town where the Konkan Railway offers breathtaking views of the sea.

The episode highlights the challenges that the Indian Railways face during the monsoon season. Heavy rainfall and strong winds cause landslides, flooding, and tree falls, which can disrupt train schedules and cause delays. Tarrant speaks with engineers and train drivers who explain how the railway works during this time. He learns about how the Indian Railways have installed equipment such as automatic flood detection systems and trackside debris mitigation systems to ensure trains can continue to operate during the monsoon season.

Tarrant also visits Udhampur, a town in Jammu and Kashmir, where he boards the Kashmir Railway. This railway line boasts some of the most stunning mountain views in the world and was built as part of a peace process between India and Pakistan. During the monsoon season, the railway line is at risk of landslides and must be checked regularly for any damage caused by the rains.

The episode also explores the Indian Railways' role in providing aid during natural disasters. Tarrant visits Valsad, a town in Gujarat that was hit by floods in 2015. The Indian Railways provided aid by transporting food, water, and supplies to the affected areas via trains. Tarrant speaks with the locals who share their gratitude towards the railway for their assistance during this difficult time.

Overall, Chris Tarrant: Extreme Railways season 1 episode 3 gives viewers an inside look into the challenges faced by the Indian Railways during the monsoon season. With its spectacular views and eye-opening stories, this episode is sure to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.