Introduction
Chennai Central Railway Station, officially known as Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station (MAS), is one of the most iconic and busiest railway stations in India. Serving as a key transportation hub for South India, it connects Chennai with major cities across the country. The station is known for its stunning British-era architecture, modern facilities, and its pivotal role in India's railway network.
This article provides an in-depth guide to Chennai Central Railway Station, covering its history, architecture, connectivity, facilities, and useful travel tips.
History of Chennai Central Railway Station
Chennai Central Railway Station was built in 1873 during the British colonial era. The architectural design was conceived by British architect George Harding, and it originally served as a hub for trains connecting Chennai to other parts of Tamil Nadu and beyond.
Over the years, the station has undergone several renovations and modernizations. In 2019, it was renamed Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station to honor the late Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and actor M.G. Ramachandran (MGR). Despite the name change, it is still popularly referred to as Chennai Central.
Architectural Marvel
The Chennai Central Railway Station is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, which is characterized by pointed arches, intricate facades, and a prominent clock tower. The iconic red-brick building with white accents has become one of Chennai's most recognizable landmarks.
Key architectural highlights:
- Clock Tower: The towering clock, which has been operational since its inception, remains a focal point for travelers and onlookers.
- Red and White Facade: The distinctive red-and-white color scheme gives it a classic yet grand appearance.
- Spacious Platforms: The platforms are wide and can accommodate long-distance trains and large crowds during peak hours.
The station's architecture not only symbolizes Chennai's rich heritage but also reflects the legacy of India's colonial past.
Connectivity and Location
Address: Grand Northern Trunk (GNT) Road, Park Town, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Pin Code: 600003
Chennai Central is strategically located in the heart of Chennai, making it highly accessible from all parts of the city. It serves as a key junction connecting trains from:
- Northern India (Delhi, Kolkata, and Patna)
- Southern India (Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kerala, and Coimbatore)
- Eastern and Western India (Mumbai, Bhubaneswar, Ahmedabad, and Visakhapatnam)
The station is also well-connected to the city's public transport system:
- Chennai Metro Rail: The underground metro line directly connects Chennai Central to Chennai Airport and other key areas of the city.
- City Bus Services: Numerous MTC (Metropolitan Transport Corporation) buses operate to and from the station.
- Suburban Trains: Chennai Central is linked with local suburban train routes, making it convenient for daily commuters.
- Taxi and Auto-Rickshaw Services: Prepaid taxis and ride-hailing services like Ola and Uber operate from the station premises.
Platforms and Train Services
Chennai Central has 17 platforms, with platforms 1-11 dedicated to long-distance trains and platforms 12-17 serving suburban and local train routes. The station operates more than 300 trains daily, catering to the needs of passengers from all over India.
Major Train Routes from Chennai Central
- Chennai to Delhi – Tamil Nadu Express, Grand Trunk Express
- Chennai to Mumbai – Chennai-Mumbai Express, Chennai Mail
- Chennai to Bengaluru – Chennai-Bangalore Shatabdi Express, Lalbagh Express
- Chennai to Hyderabad – Chennai-Hyderabad Charminar Express
- Chennai to Kolkata – Coromandel Express, Howrah-Chennai Mail
- Chennai to Kerala – Chennai-Alleppey Express, Chennai-Kochi Express
Facilities at Chennai Central Railway Station
To cater to millions of travelers, Chennai Central has undergone modernization to provide world-class facilities. Here are some key amenities available at the station:
1. Waiting Rooms and Lounges
- General Waiting Rooms: Available for all passengers.
- AC Lounges: Air-conditioned lounges for passengers traveling by AC coaches or in premium classes.
- Executive Lounge: Premium lounge facilities for business travelers and high-end passengers.
2. Food and Dining
- Food Courts and Eateries: Multiple food outlets like IRCTC Food Plaza, local eateries, and popular fast-food chains.
- Vending Machines: Automated machines for snacks, tea, coffee, and water.
- Online Food Delivery: Apps like RailRestro and TravelKhana allow passengers to order food to be delivered to their train seats.
3. Transportation and Connectivity
- Metro Connectivity: Direct metro line to Chennai Airport and city landmarks.
- Prepaid Taxis and Auto-Rickshaws: Available 24/7 for travelers.
- Parking: Large parking space for private vehicles and two-wheelers.
4. Ticket Booking and Reservation
- Ticket Counters: Multiple ticket booking counters for long-distance and suburban train bookings.
- ATVMs (Automatic Ticket Vending Machines): Self-service kiosks for quick ticket booking.
- Online Booking: Passengers can book tickets via IRCTC and Railway Apps.
5. Cleanliness and Hygiene
- Restrooms and Bathrooms: Clean and well-maintained restrooms for passengers.
- Sanitation Services: Regular cleaning and sanitization of platforms and waiting areas.
- Water Coolers: Filtered drinking water stations are placed across platforms.
Interesting Facts About Chennai Central Railway Station
- Heritage Status: Chennai Central is recognized as a Heritage Site due to its historical significance and architectural splendor.
- Renaming: The station was renamed Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station in honor of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.G. Ramachandran.
- Movie Shoots: Chennai Central has been featured in numerous South Indian and Bollywood films, symbolizing its cultural importance.
- Passenger Footfall: The station handles more than 500,000 passengers daily, making it one of the busiest railway stations in India.
- Longest Running Train: The Vivek Express, India’s longest-running train (Dibrugarh to Kanyakumari), halts at Chennai Central.
Nearby Attractions
If you have some time to spare near Chennai Central, here are some nearby tourist attractions to explore:
- Fort St. George – A historical fort established by the British East India Company.
- Marina Beach – One of the longest urban beaches in the world, just 4 km from Chennai Central.
- Parry’s Corner – A famous commercial area for shopping.
- Government Museum – A museum featuring ancient artifacts, sculptures, and art collections.
Travel Tips for Passengers
- Book Tickets Early: Since Chennai Central is one of the busiest railway stations, book tickets in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
- Check Train Schedules: Use apps like NTES (National Train Enquiry System) or IRCTC Rail Connect to check live train status.
- Secure Your Luggage: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas. Use the cloakroom service if you have excess luggage.
- Use Metro for Airport Transfers: Chennai Metro provides a fast and economical way to reach Chennai Airport.
- Avoid Middlemen: Only buy tickets from authorized ticket counters or the official IRCTC website.
Conclusion
Chennai Central Railway Station is much more than a transport hub. It is a landmark of Chennai’s heritage, a symbol of modern connectivity, and a bustling gateway for travelers across India. With its rich history, striking architecture, and world-class facilities, Chennai Central continues to be an integral part of India's railway network.
Whether you’re a tourist exploring Chennai or a commuter catching a train to another state, Chennai Central offers convenience, heritage, and a seamless travel experience. Next time you visit Chennai, take a moment to admire this iconic structure that stands as a timeless symbol of the city’s journey through history.
Plan your trip today! Book tickets via IRCTC or visit Chennai Central Railway Station for a hassle-free travel experience.
To buy RERA Certified Gated Community Villa Open Plots in Andhra Pradesh & Telangana please Contact:
For Sales : 8179712384
Mail : sales@openplots.net