Gujarat is a big and important state in India with a well-developed railway network. Many trains pass through its cities, connecting different parts of the country. Railway stations in Gujarat serve millions of passengers every year. Some stations are larger and busier than others, handling more trains and people. Among them, one station stands out as the largest, playing a key role in transportation.
An Overview of Gujarat
Gujarat is a state in western India with the longest coastline of about 1,600 km. It is the fifth-longest state by area and ninth-most populous with over 60 million people. Gujarat shares borders with Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Pakistan. The capital is Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad is the largest city. The local people are Gujaratis and their official language is Gujarati.
Largest Railway Station of Gujarat
The largest railway station in Gujarat is Ahmedabad Junction, also known as Kalupur Railway Station. It has 12 platforms and is a major hub of Western Railways. The station connects Gujarat to big cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Chennai. It also has modern facilities like waiting halls, food stalls escalators and free Wi-Fi.
Location and Significance of Ahmedabad Junction
Ahmedabad Junction is located in Kalupur, an area in Ahmedabad. It is the biggest railway station in Gujarat and one of the major railway stations in India. The station is a key part of Western Railways and is also one of its highest income-generating divisions.
Number of Platforms and Tracks
The station has 12 platforms and 16 tracks. However, platforms 10, 11 and 12 are currently closed due to the construction of the Ahmedabad-Mumbai bullet train project.
History of Ahmedabad Junction
Ahmedabad Junction has a long history. Before India’s partition in 1947, the Sindh Mail train used to run from this station to Hyderabad in Sindh (now in Pakistan). The railway station was built by Gokuldas Contractor and Associates.
Facilities at the Ahmedabad Junction
The railway station offers several facilities for passengers, including:
- Waiting Halls: Comfortable seating areas for passengers.
- Food stalls and restaurants: Different food options are available.
- Escalators and lifts: Helping passengers move between platforms easily.
- Parking area: Space for vehicles near the station.
- Ticket counters and inquiry services: For ticket booking and train details.
- Wi-Fi services: Free internet access for travelers.