The oldest Underground in the world is the London Underground, which commenced operations on January 10, 1863.
The Birth of Urban Rail
The London Underground, often affectionately known as the "Tube," holds the distinction of being the world's first underground railway. Its inaugural journey on the Metropolitan Railway line marked a significant milestone in urban transportation. Initially, these trains were powered by steam locomotives, a testament to the engineering capabilities of the Victorian era. This pioneering system laid the groundwork for modern subway networks across the globe, demonstrating an innovative solution to growing city congestion.
Key Milestones in Early Underground Systems
Following London's groundbreaking success, various cities worldwide began developing their own subterranean transit networks to address the challenges of rapid urbanization. While London led the way, other cities quickly followed suit, adapting and evolving the concept. Below is a timeline of some of the earliest underground systems, showcasing the global expansion of this revolutionary mode of transport:
| City | System Name | Year Opened |
|---|---|---|
| London | London Underground | 1863 |
| Istanbul | The Istanbul Tunnel | 1875 |
| Glasgow | Glasgow Circular Underground | 1896 |
| Budapest | Budapest's historic metro line | 1896 |
| Chicago | Chicago 'L' | 1897 |
| Paris | The Paris Metropolitain | 1900 |
| Berlin | The Berlin U-Bahn | 1902 |
| New York | New York Subway | 1904 |
Each of these systems contributed unique innovations to underground railway technology and operation, adapting to their city's specific geological and urban planning requirements. From London's steam-powered tunnels to the later adoption of electric trains, these early underground networks transformed urban living and commuting.
