The British royal train, 'Royal Train,' is set to disappear into history after 156 years. King Charles III of the United Kingdom, who has always cherished the train, has decided to eliminate the royal train for cost savings and modernization of the monarchy, according to a press conference held by the British royal family on the 30th of last month. Reports from BBC and others indicate that the currently operating train will be discontinued after its maintenance contract ends in 2027.
The Royal Train was introduced in 1869 when Queen Victoria ordered a special train for the royal family. This train has been referred to as 'the traveling palace' and has symbolized the authority of the British royal family.
The train was utilized during Queen Elizabeth II's 50th anniversary of her accession in 2002 and her 60th anniversary in 2012, and it frequently served for royal visits, receiving significant media attention throughout her reign.
The primary reason for the royal family's decision to abolish the exclusive train is the financial burden. According to the royal financial report announced the day before, the 'Royal Train' was operated only twice last year, but the operating expenses exceeded £44,000 (approximately 82 million won). Significant additional expenses arise when modernizing the aging train with the latest railway systems. As the royal family's use of rail and air travel has increased, questions have repeatedly been raised about the enormous costs involved in maintaining the exclusive train.
James Chalmers, the royal treasurer, referred to the decision to retire the royal train as 'a bittersweet farewell to the past.' He said, 'The royal train has been a part of the nation for a long time and has been loved and cared for by many, but we must not be bound by the past to move toward the future.'
The royal train consists of nine carriages. The current train was newly built in 1977 and underwent its last refurbishment in the 1980s, featuring a dining room, beds, and bathrooms. It is known for its luxurious interior and soundproofed rooms. The king can stay overnight and conduct business, allowing for governmental duties to be performed while traveling. Advocates for the abolition of the monarchy in the UK have criticized the royal train as a prime example of the luxury enjoyed by the royal family.
The royal family estimates that abolishing the royal train, which requires regular maintenance, could save about £1 million annually.
The British daily Guardian reported that 'the royal train is scheduled to tour across the UK before its abolition in 2027, and after that, it may be exhibited to the public.'