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New Delhi: Railways can be described as the lifeline of India, as trains connect different parts of the country, enabling people to travel short and long distances easily. Moreover, since plane tickets in India are costlier than train tickets, travelling by the latter doesn't burn a hole in the pockets of the common people. In India, trains have a very interesting history, and so do the numerous railway stations located in different corners of the nation.
Indian Railways began its journey during the British colonial era when the first passenger train operated on the inaugural railway track linking Bombay to Thane in 1853. Since then, railways have played a crucial role in the journey of the country, as people from different regions came into contact with each other. The Indian landscape began to be dotted by railway stations, which became synonymous with administrative efficiency.
Each of the stations in India has its own unique story and architecture, standing as captivating embodiments of cultural amalgamation. The heritage of the stations of Indian Railways is diverse, with many stations being constructed during the British era. The stations represent the culture and heritage of India. In this article, we will take a look at some of the oldest railway stations in the country.
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus is a historic railway terminus in Mumbai and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. British architectural engineer Frederick William Stevens designed the station based on an initial design by Axel Haig. The station was built in Italian Gothic style, and its construction lasted from 1878 to 1887, the year of Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee. It is the headquarters of Central Railway, and is one of the busiest railway stations in India with 18 platforms.
Howrah Junction in West Bengal is the largest and busiest railway complex in India, and also one of the largest and busiest train stations in the world. One of the oldest railway complexes in the country, it was inaugurated in 1854 and is the backbone of Eastern India. The station has 22 platforms and caters to more than 1 million passengers every day. On March 3, 1969, the inaugural Rajdhani Express departed Howrah for New Delhi. Every nook and corner of Howrah Junction serves as a reminder of the rich history of India.
The Royapuram Railway Station, located at Royapuram, on the Chennai Beach-Walajapet section of the Chennai Suburban Railway network in Chennai, is reportedly the third oldest railway station in India. It is South India's first railway station, and the first train there began to operate in June 1856 from Royapuram railway station. The station also remained the headquarters of the Madras and Southern Mahratta Railway till 1922, when the headquarters were shifted to Egmore.
Prayagraj Junction, formerly known as Allahabad Junction, is one of the oldest railway stations in India. It serves as the North Central Railway zone's headquarters and is located in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj. It serves Prayagraj and the surrounding areas. In 1859, the first train ran from Prayagraj to Kanpur. The station plays a very important role during the Kumbh Mela.
The Vadodara Junction railway station in Gujarat's Vadodara is not only one of the oldest railway stations in the country but also one of the busiest. In 1860, the then Gaekwad ruler, Maharaja Khanderao, built the station in 1861 for the Bombay, Baroda and Central India Railway company. In 1954, the present building was constructed after demolishing the original, smaller station.
Delhi Junction Railway Station in Old Delhi is one of the busiest railway stations in the country. It was established in 1864 and originally served trains arriving from Kolkata. The design of the current building is much like the nearby Red Fort, and it was opened in 1903. Even today, the station remains a significant hub in India’s railway network. Near the station, the Chandni Chowk station of the Delhi Metro network is situated, and it ensures seamless connectivity to the city.
The Chennai Central Railway Station is the main railway terminus in Chennai and is one of the busiest railway stations in South India. The station's century-old building, which architect George Harding designed, is one of the most prominent landmarks in Chennai. It was opened in 1873 and was rebuilt in 1959 and 1998. Every day, about 550,000 passengers use the terminus.
