Bihar, a state in eastern India, is well-known for its bustling cities and rich cultural heritage. One of the key aspects of its infrastructure is the extensive railway network, which plays an important role in connecting people and places. Among the many railway stations in Bihar, one stands out as the largest in terms of size, traffic and connectivity, serving thousands of passengers daily.
An Overview of Bihar
Bihar is a state in eastern India, known for its rich history and culture heritage. It is the third most populous state in India and has a young population, with over half of its people under the age of 25. The state is divided by the Ganges River and borders Uttar Pradesh, Nepal, West Bengal and Jharkhand. Bihar’s official language is Hindi, with Maithili, Maghai and Bhojpuri being widely spoken.
Largest Railway Station of Bihar
Patna Junction is the largest and one of the busiest railway stations in Bihar. Located in Patna, the capital city of the state, it serves as a major transportation hub for people travelling across India. The station is well-connected to many major cities and plays an important role in the railway network of India.
History of Patna Junction
Patna Junction was opened in 1862 as Bankipore Junction, during the British era. Before the railway came, goods were transported through the Ganga river. The station became part of the Danapur Division in 1925, and in 1948, it introduced the first Janta Express, a third-class express train, running between Patna and Delhi.
Connectivity and Train Services
Patna Junction is a central point on the Howrah-Delhi main line and has connections to many important places. It links Patna to major cities like Delhi, Kolkata and Gaya. The station has trains running frequently to these cities, as well as other towns and cities in Bihar like Muzaffarpur, Chhapra and Hajipur.
Infrastructure and Modernization of Bihar’s Largest Railway Station
Patna Junction has 10 platforms and 15 tracks, handling a large number of trains daily. The station was extensively redeveloped in 2002, increasing the number of platforms from 7 to 10 and constructing a new floor in the station building. Foot overbridges (FOBs) connect the platforms, making it easier for passengers to move around.
Recent Developments
In 2018-19, Patna Junction got a new facade designed by the National Institute of Technology, Patna. The station also added cultural artwork and depictions to enhance its appearance. Additionally, the installation of the Route Relay Interlocking (RRI) system in 2012 improved the safety and efficiency of train operations.
Significance of Biggest Railway Station of Bihar
Patna Junction is a major railway hub in Bihar, not only for its size but also for its historical and cultural significance. It connects the state to several regions and plays a vital role in the daily transportation of passengers.