India’s railway network is one of the largest in the world, connecting cities, towns and villages across the country. Among its many unique features are railway stations with interesting and often long names that capture attention. Some station names reflect the history or local language of the area they serve, making them truly special. One such station holds the record for having the longest station name in India.
Indian Railway System
India is home to one of the largest railway networks in the world. With a track length of 132,310 kilometers and over 7,300 railway stations, the Indian Railways is a massive transportation system connecting every corner of the country. Among all these stations, one stands out for having the longest name.
The Station with the Longest Name
The Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station, located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, holds the record for the longest name of any railway station in India. The station’s name has 57 letters, making it unique among all Indian railway stations.
A Brief History of the Station
This station was originally called Madras Central and later renamed Chennai Central. In 2019, it was officially renamed Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station to honor M.G. Ramachandran, the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and a beloved leader in the state. The decision to rename the station was made by the Tamil Nadu government and approved by the Union government.
Significance of the Station
This railway station is not only notable for its name but also for its importance as a transportation hub:
- It connects Chennai to major cities like Kolkata, Mumbai and Delhi.
- It is one of the busiest railway stations in Southern India, serving as the main terminus for the city.
Comparison with the World’s Longest Railway Station Name
While the name of this station is impressive, the world’s longest railway station name is Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch in Wales, United Kingdom. This station name has 58 letters and is the longest place name in Europe and the world.