Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh — September 6, 2025
In a surprising archaeological find, engineers working on a canal excavation project in Bareilly stumbled upon a 100-year-old steam-powered tractor buried under soil and overgrowth. This rare relic, dating back to the British colonial era, is believed to be one of the eight such machines brought to India for infrastructure work.
A Sneaky Find Behind Government Offices
The tractor emerged during digging by the Rohilkhand Canal Department. It was uncovered behind a government office when an assistant engineer’s keen eyes caught sight of its steam-driven structure.
What Makes the Tractor So Special?
Historians and excavation teams call this a small industrial marvel. Steam tractors like these were used in the early 20th century for tough tasks—plowing fields and carrying materials for canal construction.([The Times of India][1], [Navbharat Times][2]) Their rarity and historical significance make them valued artifacts.
Why This Discovery Matters
- Heritage unlocked: This equipment links us directly to the pioneering days of mechanized farming and infrastructure in colonial India.
- Industrial heritage: The find highlights early British efforts to introduce advanced machinery to local engineering projects.
- Preservation opportunity: Archaeologists and historians are now discussing how to study and preserve the tractor for museum display and educational use.