Which are the 5 central railway stations in India?

Central Railway Stations in India: A Historical Journey

In the vast railway network of India, certain stations hold the esteemed title of “Central.” While the term’s usage lacks geographical consistency, it denotes stations of historical significance and regional importance. Here are five notable Central railway stations in India:

1. Chennai Central (Madras Central):

Chennai Central, formerly known as Madras Central, is the largest and busiest railway station in South India. Inaugurated in 1873, it serves as the hub for Southern Railway and connects Chennai to all major destinations in the country. Its grand architecture, with a blend of colonial and Indian influences, reflects its rich history.

2. Mumbai Central:

Mumbai Central, also known as CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus), is a magnificent historical landmark and the main railway station in Mumbai. Built in the Victorian Gothic style in 1888, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mumbai Central serves as the headquarters of Western Railway and connects Mumbai to various parts of the country, including New Delhi and Kolkata.

3. Trivandrum Central:

Trivandrum Central is the principal railway station of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala. Opened in 1889, it connects the city to major destinations in South India, including Chennai and Mangalore. The station reflects the bustling nature of Trivandrum and its role as a gateway to the southernmost part of the country.

4. Gorakhpur Junction:

Gorakhpur Junction is the largest railway station in Eastern Uttar Pradesh. It is a major hub for the North Eastern Railway and connects Gorakhpur to cities such as Lucknow, Varanasi, and Delhi. The station is known for its vast yard and plays a vital role in the transportation of agricultural produce and passengers in the region.

5. Kanpur Central:

Kanpur Central is the central railway station of Kanpur, a major industrial city in Uttar Pradesh. Inaugurated in 1859, it serves as the headquarters of North Central Railway and connects Kanpur to important destinations in North India, including Agra, Lucknow, and New Delhi. The station is known for its historical heritage and its role in the city’s economic development.

It’s important to note that the designation of “Central” in India’s railway system is often indicative of the station’s age and established status rather than its precise geographical centrality. These stations have played a pivotal role in connecting different regions of the country and have witnessed countless journeys over the years.