A unique World War II tram is being rescued in Kyiv (photos).
The Kyiv Transport Community (KTC) has reached out to KP "Kyivpastrans" with a request to preserve the rare industrial electric locomotive EL-1. It is currently located at the old Darnytsia tram depot.
Activists suggest transferring this historic transport vehicle to a museum collection to protect it from further neglect. This information is mentioned on the community's Facebook page.
"We kindly ask Kyivpastrans to preserve this tram and, if possible, transfer it to a museum.", — appeals KTC.
3 Internet users are noting that one of the EL-1 units was not preserved. It was located at the Podil depot.
4 5 History of the Electric Locomotive
The EL-1 electric locomotive was constructed in 1942 based on the German ET-4 series locomotive. The conversion was carried out at the Kyiv Tram Plant, which ensured its adaptation to local operating conditions. The EL-1 was designed for operation on industrial and urban routes, including as part of the capital's transport infrastructure.
6 The tram is equipped with control cabins in both sections, providing convenience for short-route operations. It serves as an example of engineering from the World War II era, when there was a need to modernize transport due to resource constraints.
7 Throughout its operational history, the EL-1 has worked at several locations in Kyiv, including the Shevchenko Tram Depot and the Darnytsia Depot. Today, the EL-1 electric locomotive is a true rarity.
8 Earlier, "Telegraph" showcased how New Year trees in Kyiv looked in the 20th century. Initially, festive trees were placed in Independence Square, but after the Revolution of Dignity in 2014, the tree was permanently moved to Sophia Square.