The spiritual importance of Varanasi is not hidden with anyone. Steeped in history and culture, Varanasi is famous for its ghats, temples, and rituals along the holy Ganges River. People from far distances travel to Varanasi to fulfil their wishes connected with this divine city. Therefore to make the city easily accessible by all the visitors, transportation system plays a major role. One of the major transportation hubs in Varanasi is the Banaras Railway Station, which serves as an important gateway for millions of pilgrims and tourists visiting the city. Banaras Railway Station is well-connected to several major cities across India and plays a crucial role in facilitating travel in and out of Varanasi. The station is known for its convenient facilities, cleanliness, and efficient operation, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey for travellers. Its strategic location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the significant religious and historical sites of Varanasi.
Station Code : BSBS (formerly MUV)
Location : Manduadih, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
Owned and Operated by : Indian Railways, North Eastern Railways
Number of Platforms : 8
Parking : Available
Zone : North Eastern Railway zone
Division : Varanasi
Services : Computerized ticketing counters, Luggage checking system, Parking, Disabled access, Food plaza, Taxi stand, Public transportation
Banaras railway station, which used to be called Manduadih railway station and has the station code BSBS, is in the Banaras area of Varanasi in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is one of Varanasi’s most important stations. The Banaras Railway Station is often ranked as one of the busiest rail terminals in all of Varanasi. It is an important transit hub for both passengers and products, connecting Varanasi with the rest of India and serving as a connection point for international travellers. The name of the station is written on the new sign boards in Hindi, English, Urdu, and Sanskrit. As a result of the significant traffic that passes through Varanasi Junction on a daily basis, the station has been upgraded to provide numerous convenient amenities. The Banaras Railway station is on the Prayagraj Varanasi Junction line and is about 3 km north-west of the Varanasi Junction stop. It is the last stop on the Varanasi Division/North Eastern Railway in the Varanasi area.
Between 1899 and 1913, the Bengal and North Western Railway built the Prayagraj–Mau–Gorakhpur main line as a metre-gauge line that was 1,000 mm wide. It was opened in 1906 as an MG (meter-gauge) railway stop. It is now the NSG-3 Class and Adarsh station. In 1993–1994, it was changed to a broad gauge of 5 ft 6 in (1,676 mm).
On May 24, 1956, Dr. Sampurnanand, who was the second Chief Minister of UP, changed the name of Banaras Cant to Varanasi Junction. Manduadih Railway Station is now called Banaras Railway Station. The name “Banaras” is back on the Indian Railway map after almost 65 years.
The Banaras Railway Station in Varanasi has undergone extensive renovations recently. The design of the station incorporates elements that represent the religious beliefs of Kashi. There are a total of 18 trains that travel through the Banaras railway station each day. Indian Railways (IR) refers to the Banaras railway station as an airport-style railway station. The Banaras railway station is considered to be of world-class quality. It has ISO: 2015 certification for quality management, ISO: 14001 certification for environmental management, and ISO: 18001 certification for occupational health and safety management. The station is also contributing to the local economy by creating job opportunities for the residents.
Through an extensive bus and taxi network, the station is very well connected to the remainder of the city as well as the rest of the state. Those individuals who would rather drive to the station can make use of the parking facilities that are available.
When it comes to amenities and services, the Banaras Railway Station is at par with some airports in India. The station provides a broad variety of services and amenities for the comfort and convenience of its customers, such as ticket counters, waiting rooms, food kiosks, and restrooms. Additionally, it includes a separate platform for long-distance trains. In addition to regular train services, the Banaras Railway Station has several other facilities for passengers. These include an AC lounge, non-AC retiring rooms, and dormitories. The station premises are well-maintained and feature fountains and seating areas for passengers to relax. Inside, the station is equipped with modern stainless steel lounges and energy-efficient LED lights.
With its spacious and clean platforms, passengers can easily navigate through the station. There are also food plazas available for hungry travellers. VIP lounges provide a comfortable and luxurious experience for those looking for an extra level of service. The station also boasts escalators, green gardens, and a modern booking station for passengers’ convenience. They put special lights in the area to make it look amazing at night.
Manoj Sinha, who served as the minister of state for railways under the previous administration of the union government, took a particular interest in improving the railway station into a passenger-friendly facility. Following that, the station was totally renovated in the year 2016. It used to have three platforms but now has eight and a gorgeous construction. The makeover was projected to cost approx Rs 37 crore.
This railway station is expected to play a significant role in easing congestion at the main railway station, Varanasi Cantt. The plan is for many trains to originate from Banaras railway station in the future, which will help to reduce overcrowding at Varanasi Cantt railway station.