As previously stated, the state railway system, the TCDD (Türkiye Cümhuriyeti Devlet Demiyollari Isletmsei), was created on 1st June 1927 with the nationalisation of the Baghdad Railway. A new line from Ankara to Kayseri had just been opened which was then opened on to Sivas on 31st August 1930. Less than 3 months later the first section of line south from Samsun on the Black Sea coast was opened and this continued in stages with the last section to Kalin, the junction on the Ankara to Sivas line, being completed on 15th December 1932. This like the Zonguldak line is a very lengthy one involving many severe gradients but in many cases passing through far less rugged scenery. Principal motive power prior to diselisation were the 2-8-0s of the 45001 series and 2-10-0s of the 56001 series.

To view any full size image and caption details please click the maroon button below each thumbnail