Indian Model Trains
1)The gauge problem
The central problem in modelling Indian,Pakistani and Bangladeshi trains is that none of the track gauges is 4' 8½" (standard gauge). If you are not willing to make your own track, you must choose an existing track gauge and, if necessary, put up with a slight (or serious) discrepancy. 4mm scale models on16.5mm gauge would obviously be very knock-kneed, as 16.5mm is only 4' 1½" in 1:76.2 scale.
2)Scale
Leaving aside N and O gauges, the possible scale/gauge are combinations range from 3mm:1' (TT3 = 1:101.6) through HO (3.5mm:1') to 4mm scale (OO, EM; 1:76.2).
If you model to a scale rather than fitting a scale to a track gauge, the biggest market by far for components is in HO and 4mm scale, and many of those (though not all!) are interchangeable. Lots of ready-made parts are available for British trains in 4mm scale. However, there is a paradox, and one that particularly affects modellers who want to build both steam and diesel locomotives, which would probably include many modellers of the recent Indian scene. The paradox is that most steam locos were similar (though never identical) to British practice, and there are many 4mm scale parts that fit. But most Indian diesels are of US origin or design, and there are scads of HO parts suitable
That matters less with the smaller parts, because the differences are tiny, but when it comes to bogie (truck) sideframes, wheelbases, complete underframes, and so on, discrepancies can mount up rapidly. Some rollingstock parts, such as bogies, brake gear, and much else, may also be useable. Again, a paradox: English components may be useful for 4-wheel wagons and coaches, but US will be better for bogie freight stock.
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