Unfortunately I visited almost too late. By the time I got there, Tangshan coal mine had just switched to diesels, the remaining SY no. 0955 remaining in steam only as a means of heating water.
Tangshan Iron & Steel Company was operating a mix of SY 2-8-2 and the dreaded orange diesels, but access was very difficult.
Kailuan Coal Mining Administration was operating SYs, but with a very infrequent service. It was however, the dustiest place I've ever visited in China.
Whilst we were there, shift change at the mine took place. Chinese coal mines have an appalling safety record, so watch the dirty tired faces emerging from the mine touched you inside.
Despite all that, a good day. Click here to see the pictures at Tangshan!
