India’s vast railway network stands as a testament to the country’s rich history, engineering marvels, and cultural diversity. From the iconic steam engines of the past to the high-speed trains of the present, Indian Railways has played a crucial role in shaping the nation’s economy and connecting its people. From train booking to the array of facilities provided by Indian railways enhances your train journey experience. In this blog, we delve into 25 incredible facts about Indian Railways, showcasing its significance, achievements, and fascinating trivia.
Amazing Facts about Indian Railways
Knowing facts about Indian Railways is essential as it provides insight into the rich history, engineering marvels, and cultural significance of one of the world’s largest railway networks. Understanding these facts not only deepens our appreciation for the role that Indian Railways plays in connecting people but also highlights its contribution to the nation’s heritage and development. Moreover, being aware of train ticket booking, live train status and other train-related information is equally important as it helps you to track your journey in real-time and enhance your travel experience.
A List of Interesting Facts about Trains
Below you’ll find a list of incredible facts about Indian railways that you must be familiar with.
- Oldest Railway Network in Asia: Indian Railways holds the distinction of being the oldest railway network in Asia, with its origins dating back to the mid-19th century during British colonial rule.
- First Passenger Train: The first passenger train in India ran from Mumbai to Thane on April 16, 1853, covering a distance of 34 kilometers. This historic journey marked the beginning of Indian Railways’ passenger services.
- Longest Railway Platform: The Gorakhpur Railway Station in Uttar Pradesh boasts the longest railway platform in the world, stretching over 1,366 meters to accommodate multiple trains simultaneously.
- Highest Railway Station: The Ghum Railway Station in West Bengal holds the distinction of being the highest railway station in India, situated at an elevation of 2,258 meters above sea level.
- Fairy Queen: The Fairy Queen, built in 1855, is the oldest steam locomotive still in operation, recognized by the Guinness World Records. It operates occasional heritage tours between Delhi and Alwar.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Indian Railways is responsible for managing several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus.
- Lifeline of India: Indian Railways is often referred to as the “lifeline of India” due to its crucial role in transporting passengers, goods, and essential commodities across the length and breadth of the country.
- Dabbawalas of Mumbai: The Dabbawalas of Mumbai, renowned for their efficient lunchbox delivery system, rely on Indian Railways to transport thousands of lunchboxes daily from suburban areas to offices in the city.
- Luxury Trains: India is home to several luxury trains, including the Palace on Wheels, Maharajas’ Express, and Deccan Odyssey, offering travelers a glimpse into the country’s royal heritage and cultural richness.
- Commonwealth Games Special: Indian Railways introduced special luxury trains during the 2010 Commonwealth Games held in Delhi to cater to the influx of tourists and athletes visiting the city.
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the “Toy Train,” is a narrow-gauge railway recognized for its scenic beauty and engineering marvels, traversing through the picturesque hills of Darjeeling.
- Konkan Railway: The Konkan Railway, spanning over 760 kilometers along the western coast of India, features several iconic bridges and tunnels, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea and Western Ghats.
- Vande Bharat Express: The Vande Bharat Express, also known as Train 18, is India’s first semi-high-speed train equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, including onboard Wi-Fi, GPS-based passenger information systems, and automatic doors.
- Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC): IRCTC is a subsidiary of Indian Railways responsible for catering, tourism, and online ticketing services, making it one of the largest e-commerce websites in India.
- Matheran Hill Railway: The Matheran Hill Railway in Maharashtra is one of the few narrow-gauge railways in India known for its scenic beauty and historic charm, offering tourists a nostalgic journey through the hill station of Matheran.
- Himalayan Queen: The Himalayan Queen, operating between Kalka and Shimla, is one of the oldest trains in India, renowned for its breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains and lush green valleys.
- Howrah Junction: Howrah Junction in Kolkata is one of the busiest railway stations in India, handling a staggering number of passengers and trains every day, serving as a gateway to the eastern region of the country.
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus: Formerly known as Victoria Terminus, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus in Mumbai is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Gothic Revival architecture and intricate carvings.
- Palace on Wheels: The Palace on Wheels is a luxury tourist train that traverses through the royal landscapes of Rajasthan, showcasing the state’s vibrant culture, majestic forts, and opulent palaces.
- Mumbai Local Trains: The Mumbai Suburban Railway, also known as Mumbai locals, is one of the busiest commuter rail systems in the world, catering to millions of passengers daily and serving as the lifeline of the city.
- Indian Railways Institute of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering (IRIMEE): IRIMEE in Jamalpur, Bihar, is one of the oldest railway institutes in India, offering specialized training programs in mechanical and electrical engineering for railway personnel.
- Indian Railways Institute of Transport Management (IRITM): IRITM in Lucknow is a premier management institute under Indian Railways, offering postgraduate programs in transport management and logistics to railway officials and professionals.
- Solar-Powered Trains: Indian Railways has introduced solar-powered trains equipped with solar panels on the rooftop to generate electricity, contributing to environmental sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.
- Bharat Darshan Tourist Trains: Indian Railways operates Bharat Darshan Tourist Trains, offering affordable and all-inclusive travel packages to popular tourist destinations across India, catering to budget-conscious travelers.
- Diamond Quadrilateral Project: The Diamond Quadrilateral Project is a high-speed rail network initiative aimed at connecting major cities in India, reducing travel time and enhancing connectivity across the country.
Conclusion
Indian Railways is more than just a mode of transportation; it is a symbol of India’s unity, progress, and cultural heritage. From its historic beginnings to its modern achievements, Indian Railways continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the nation, connecting people, cultures, and aspirations across the length and breadth of the country. As we journey through time on the tracks of Indian Railways, we witness not just trains and stations but the heart and soul of a nation on the move. Therefore, you can book your train tickets to different destinations in India, such as Delhi, Hyderabad, Bangalore and more through redBus.