London Underground

London Underground


The London Underground

London much like any large cities in the United States has many different forms of mass transportation including double Decker busses, cabs and of course the subway systems. In London the underground as it is called is one of the largest used forms of mass transportation.
In 1860 construction began on an underground line in London. When it was started it was believed to cost 1 million pounds. Construction was completed in 1863. On its first day of operation it hauled 38000 people. In the First year it carried 9 million people and the second year it hauled 12 million people. In 1869 the use of steam trains was started in the underground system.
In 1890 the use of deep underground rail lines started. The Rail line went under the Thames river. In 1902 the Underground Electric Railway Company of London (known as the Underground Group) is formed. In 1905 The railway was made electric. In 1908 The name 'Underground' makes its first appearance in stations, and the first electric ticket-issuing machine is introduced. This year also sees the first appearance of the famous roundel symbol.
In 1952 the use of the first aluminum train started in the underground lines. In 1961 you see the end of the steam and electric locomotive haulage of London Transport passenger trains In 1975 the underground suffered a tragic accident that killed 43 individuals that led to new safety measurements. In 1983 the railroad introduced the idea of a dot map. This map was an easy way to look at the lines route and the stops along the way.
In 1987 the railroad suffered another tragity when a fire broke out at kings cross station killing 31 people. New fire regulations were set in place after the fire occurred.
With out the use of the underground the traffic in London would be horrific. The Idea of the underground is an idea that changed the world. It influenced many different subway systems including the New York subway system, and even the influence of...

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