Kolkata, July 20 (HS). 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.

With 23 platforms, it is one of the largest railway stations in the world, handling over a million passengers every day, Eastern Railway spokesperson Kaushik Mitra said on Saturday.

Preserves the history of India's colonial period: 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.

Expansion and development: Mitra explains that over the years, the station underwent several expansions to accommodate growing passenger and freight traffic. In 1905, six additional platforms were built, taking the total number of platforms to seven. 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 finally in 2009 the station expanded to the current 23 platforms.

It is the gateway to the Northeast: Kaushik Mitra said that Howrah station connects Kolkata to other parts of India, with trains running to major cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Bengaluru. Not only this, Howrah station is also a popular tourist destination in itself. This station attracts tourists from all over the world to see its grandeur and historical importance.

Keeping pace with technology: This colonial station has not lagged behind in keeping pace with the rapidly developing world with the help of technology. In recent years, Howrah station has undergone significant upgrades and renovations. Platforms 20 and 21 were expanded in 1992. Then in 2002, the construction of a new cab road and the widening of platforms 14 and 15 are some examples of this.

More than 10 lakh people travel: Today, Howrah station is considered the busiest railway station in India. 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.

The station's watch tower and magnificent architecture are historic: Kaushik Mitra says that the station's iconic clock tower and grand architecture make it an iconic landmark in Kolkata. They have held many stories over the decades. The existence of Howrah Station is a testimony to the saga of Indian Railways' growth and development. From its small beginnings to its current status as a major transport hub, Howrah Station has come a long way, and its history is an interesting tale of progress and innovation.

The journey has been something like this

1854: Howrah Station established by the East India Company.

1905: Six additional platforms added.

1984: Eight more platforms constructed.

1992: New terminal complex constructed, adding four more platforms.

2009: The station is expanded to have 23 platforms.

2002: New Cab Road constructed.

2008: A Rail Museum is established.