UK Approves Final Decision to Decommission Royal Train: Modernization and Tradition Under Scrutiny
In the United Kingdom, plans are underway to retire the historic royal train that has served as a symbol of the royal family and a testament to British history for over a century. This move is part of a broader effort to modernize the monarchy’s image and realign its budget and operational practices toward more cost-effective and contemporary solutions. Official sources confirm that the private 'Royal Train,' originally built in the 19th century to transport royal family members across the UK’s railway network, will cease operations due to rising maintenance costs and outdated infrastructure. This royal train, which has nine carriages and dates back to 1840, was an iconic relic of various historic moments. Its last carriage was added in 1986, and recent figures indicate that annual expenses for its upkeep have exceeded 80,000 pounds. The royal administration emphasizes the need to cut costs and shift financial resources to more pressing modern priorities. James Chalmers, the royal treasurer, announced that the monarch has approved the complete withdrawal of the train from service by 2027, aiming to preserve the historical artifacts while improving budget efficiency. Efforts are currently underway to find a long-term storage solution for the train's components. Meanwhile, funding for the royal family continues to grow, with expenses expected to increase by another 46 million pounds over the next two years. At the same time, Buckingham Palace reports increased revenue from offshore wind farms, resulting in higher income for the Crown Estate—whose profits fund royal expenses. The sovereign grant, covering palace maintenance, staff salaries, and official travel, is projected to reach over 132 million pounds in 2024. Critics from the republican movement, which advocates abolishing the monarchy, accuse the royal household of lavish spending and lack of transparency, calling for greater accountability. In response, Chalmers highlighted the international importance of the British monarchy, citing surveys that identify the royal family as a key factor shaping the UK's global image.