March 17

Events - Transportation & Infrastructure

1862day.year

The first railway line of Finland between cities of Helsinki and Hämeenlinna, called Päärata, is officially opened.

Finland’s first railway, Päärata, opened in 1862, connecting Helsinki to Hämeenlinna and revolutionizing transport on the Finnish mainland.
On March 17, 1862, the Päärata railway line officially began operation, linking Helsinki and Hämeenlinna across 108 kilometers of track. Constructed under the Russian Grand Duchy’s authority, it was Finland’s inaugural major rail project. The line enabled faster movement of people, timber, and goods, spurring economic growth and regional integration. Stations and infrastructure were built using local materials, setting standards for future expansion of Finnish railways. Päärata remained a vital corridor in Finland’s network and symbolized the country’s industrial advancement.
1862 railway line Finland Helsinki Hämeenlinna Päärata
1979day.year

The Penmanshiel Tunnel collapses during engineering works, killing two workers.

The Penmanshiel Tunnel collapses during engineering works in Scotland, killing two workers. The accident leads to the permanent closure of the historic railway tunnel.
On March 17, 1979, the Penmanshiel Tunnel on the East Coast Main Line in Scotland collapsed during renovation work. Two construction workers were trapped and killed when part of the tunnel's roof gave way. Emergency crews recovered the bodies and assessed extensive structural damage. Investigation revealed that alterations to the tunnel lining had weakened its support arches. The collapse forced the railway line to be rerouted and the tunnel to be abandoned. This incident underscored the importance of rigorous engineering assessments in infrastructure projects.
1979 Penmanshiel Tunnel