New Delhi: Indian Railways has several stations which are not just platforms for people to catch trains but they also act as representations of the country’s heritage. These stations act as historical sites which show the engineering marvel that went into constructing them. The Howrah railway station is one such station in India and is one of the most important rail stations in the country. In this article, we will take a look at this heritage station which holds immense significance in the map of Indian Railways.
Why is the Howrah railway station so important?
The Howrah railway station is located in West Bengal’s Howrah and is the largest railway complex in the country and also one of the busiest. Also, it is one of the largest and busiest train stations in the world and moreover, it is one of the oldest surviving railway complex in India.
The station connects Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal with the rest of the country. It has become one of the most important transit points for passengers and goods movement in the country. There are 23 platforms in the Howrah rail complex and it has the highest handling capacity of any railway station in the country. The average daily footfall of the station is more than 10.5 lakhs and its well-organized platforms facilitate the smooth operation of trains.
Howrah railway station: A legacy from the colonial era
The Howrah railway station is located in a huge, sprawling red brick building and its architecture is a throwback to the British colonial architecture of India. The building was designed by British architect Halsey Ricardo, and the first commercial train ran from the station to nearby Hooghly on August 15, 1854. On the same day, regular services were introduced for morning and evening with stoppage at Serampore, Chandannagore, and Bally. The new station of the Howrah railway complex was opened to the public on December 1, 1905, and completed by 1911.
In subsequent years, the complex was expanded massively and today, it stands as a blend of history, culture, and modern technology. Howrah is more than just another station, as it showcases the history and evolution of rail stations in India. In 2006, a rail museum was opened in Howrah and it has a section dedicated to the heritage and history of Howrah railway station. The museum is located to the south of the station and it displays historically important artefacts related to the Eastern Railway’s development.
Howrah Railway Station, a vital transportation hub in Kolkata, boasts a rich history and architectural significance. It is one of India’s busiest and largest stations, a testament to its importance in connecting West Bengal to the rest of the country. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
