In 1981, the railway up Monte Generoso was one of the last Swiss railways to be electrified. The beginning of 1981 was therefore the last moment to capture the diesel traction in photographs. We therefore organised a photo trip, which was only possible before the start of regular summer operations (locomotive driver and rolling stock free and no obstruction of scheduled trains).
At that time, railway operations were officially suspended in winter. However, the PTT operated a transmitter station for Swiss radio and television on the summit of Monte Generoso from 1957. This transmitter also required supervisory staff on site in winter, which is why the railway made a supply trip at least once a week (or more if necessary). This was usually done with a diesel locomotive running alone with a snow plough.
On 20 March 1981, one day before the photo tour, Werner Hardmeier and I were allowed to ride on such a supply run. We had snow shovels with us to clear the planned photo spots and make them accessible for the photographers. The photos of the diesel locomotive Thm 2/2 7 with snow plough were taken on this occasion.
The photo run will certainly be worth a story one day…
March 20, 1981 Photo: Edi Meier, Bülach
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