Railway Herald
BDZ PP locomotive shortages during 2016 and 2017 saw the Czech-built Class 61 out on numerous passenger workings. This image shows 61-019, technically a BDZ Cargo example which was on long term loan to the BDZ passenger division along with 61-003 and 61-010 until 2021 when the delivery of the SIEMENS Smartrons in late December 2020, would ease the shortage situation. Previously based at Dupnitsa, 61-019 was a regular performer along the Bobov Dol branch on coal trip traffic until the contract was lost to private operator TBD. This image was recorded as late as the 10th July 2019, at Zaharna fabrika on what I believe to be the Sofia Central to Kulata International working, INT 361.
Stephen Ginn
