Indian Railways is one of the largest and busiest railway networks in the world. With thousands of stations spread across remote villages and big cities, it carries millions of passengers to their destinations every day. But have you ever wondered where India’s railway journey began? Which was the country’s first railway station?
Where was India’s first railway station located?
India’s first railway station was Bori Bunder, built in 1853. It was located in Mumbai (then known as Bombay). This place is historically important because India’s first passenger train started its journey from Bori Bunder to Thane on April 16, 1853. At that time, the station was straightforward in structure, but it laid the foundation for the growth of railway transport in India.
Grand structure designed by British architect
As the railway network expanded, the need was felt to redevelop the station. According to media reports and historical records, the station’s present grand structure was designed by British architect Frederick William Stevens. It was built in the Indo-Saracenic style, which beautifully blends Indian and Gothic architecture. Even today, people are amazed by its detailed design and impressive grandeur.
Journey of India’s first railway station: From Bori Bunder to CSMT
From 1853 to the present day, this station has witnessed many phases of history and several name changes. It began in 1853 as Bori Bunder, a small and simple railway station. In 1887, to mark Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, it was renamed Victoria Terminus (VT). Later, in 1996, the station was renamed Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) to honour the great Maratha warrior King Shivaji. Finally, in 2017, the word “Maharaj” was added to give greater respect, and the station came to be known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), the name by which it is famous worldwide today.
UNESCO declared this railway station World Heritage Site
Located in Mumbai, Maharashtra, this station is not just a railway hub but also a historic monument. Recognising its cultural and architectural importance, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in July 2004. Today, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus serves as the headquarters of the Central Railway zone of Indian Railways. It is a major centre for Mumbai’s local trains as well as long-distance services, with millions of passengers passing through every day. What began as Bori Bunder has now become a globally recognised landmark.
