At Kasur Junction, a cast-iron platform scale, bearing the name “Atlas Weighbridge & Engineering Co., Howrah,” stands as a silent reminder of the colonial era. Manufactured by Atlas Weighbridge, a prominent engineering company in Howrah, West Bengal, these mechanical scales were widely used across railway stations, grain markets, and depots during the British colonial period.
Founded in the late 19th century, Atlas Weighbridge & Engineering Co. quickly became known for its precision engineering and durable products. Specializing in the design and manufacture of mechanical weighbridges, the company played a pivotal role in outfitting India's expanding railway network and commercial hubs with reliable and accurate weighing equipment. At its peak, Atlas was synonymous with quality in the field of industrial and transport-scale manufacturing.
The scale at Kasur Junction, built without the need for electricity, relies on counterweights and levers to accurately weigh goods. The inscription “To Weigh 5 CWT” indicates a capacity of 254 kilograms, typical for mid-sized cargo. This scale, though rusted, remains functional, offering a glimpse into the past where these precise instruments played a crucial role in maintaining fair trade and safe loading practices in India’s colonial railway system.
Today, the scale at Kasur Junction isn’t just a piece of old machinery—it’s a living piece of history. It stands quietly, still doing its job, a reminder of the skilled craftsmanship and ingenuity that went into its creation. While the world around it has embraced modern technology, this humble scale remains a symbol of the past, still functional and steadfast. In a way, it feels as though it has witnessed the passage of time, from the colonial era to today, serving as a bridge between the past and the present.
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