India’s railway system is one of the most extensive and vital transportation networks in the world. It serves as a daily lifeline for millions, operating more than 13,000 trains and handling over 20 million passengers each day. With over 7,300 stations, Indian Railways (IR) remains one of the country’s most reliable, affordable, and widely used modes of travel. It also plays a critical role in the Indian economy as a major source of government revenue.
World’s Longest Railway Platform at Hubballi Junction
The world’s longest railway platform is located at the Sri Siddharoodha Swamiji Hubballi Station in Karnataka. Platform number 1 at this station measures 1,507 metres in length and was completed at a cost of approximately ₹20 crore. As of March 2023, it holds the record for the longest railway platform globally, officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records.
Strategic Importance of Hubballi Junction
Hubballi Junction plays a vital role in the North Karnataka region as a major center for trade and transport. It connects routes leading to Bengaluru via Davanagere, Hosapete via Gadag, and Vasco-Da-Gama/Belagavi via Londa. The extended platform is designed to improve the station’s capacity to manage more trains and to support simultaneous train operations in two directions, minimizing delays and enhancing passenger convenience.
Enhanced Efficiency for Train Operations
The extended platform helps reduce the holding time for express trains, allowing smoother train operations. It increases the station’s operational capacity and prepares it for higher traffic demands in the future. This is expected to improve overall service efficiency at Hubballi Junction.
Indian Railways: A Legacy of Over 160 Years
The Indian Railways has a history dating back to 1853, when the first passenger train ran from Mumbai to Thane. Since then, IR has grown into the world’s fourth-largest rail network. It operates several key trains, including the Rajdhani Express, Shatabdi Express, Duronto Express, Vande Bharat Express, Garib Rath Express, Gatimaan Express, and Tejas Express, catering to diverse travel needs across the country.
