Howrah station turns 170; Let's revisit the iconic moments of the world's busiest station

Howrah Railway Station, one of the largest railway stations not only in West Bengal but in the country, has turned 170 years old. It is one of the oldest and largest railway stations in India. With a rich history dating back to 1854, it has evolved over the years and has become one of the busiest train stations in the world today.

The history of Howrah station dates back to 1854 when it was built by the East India Company. After the establishment of the station, on 15 August 1854, the first public train ran from the station on the Howrah-Hooghly Main Line, which started a new era in Indian Railways.

The iconic railway station had just 7 platforms in 1905. In 1984, eight more platforms were built, taking the total number to 15. A new terminal complex was built in 1992, adding four more platforms and eventually expanding the station in 2009 to the current 23 platforms.

This colonial station has not lagged in keeping pace with the rapidly developing world with the help of technology. In recent years, Howrah station has undergone significant upgrades and renovations. Today, it serves more than a million passengers every day and operates 450 suburban local trains and 107 long-distance trains.

The station's 23 platforms handle trains with more than 24 coaches, making it one of the busiest train stations in the world. With its long journey and constant renovation, Howrah station is a symbol of progress and development, reflecting the growth of Indian Railways over the years.