Lokmanya Tilak Terminus
Lokmanya Tilak Terminus, formerly known as Kurla Terminus, is a prominent railway terminus in the Kurla suburb of Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. It is operated by the Central Railway zone of Indian Railways. The terminus is an essential hub in Mumbai's transport network, facilitating connectivity to various parts of the country.
Historical Background
The terminus was named after Bal Gangadhar Tilak, a prominent leader of the Indian independence movement, whose contributions to Indian nationalism are celebrated nationwide. The renaming aimed to honor his memory and legacy.
Infrastructure and Facilities
Lokmanya Tilak Terminus is equipped with multiple platforms and amenities to cater to the high volume of passengers it serves daily. The terminus handles long-distance trains and is known for its efficient management and service quality. Facilities such as waiting rooms, ticket counters, and food stalls are available to enhance passenger convenience.
Key Train Services
Lokmanya Tilak Terminus is a departure and arrival point for several important train services connecting Mumbai with various regions across India:
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Lokmanya Tilak Terminus–Patliputra Express: This Superfast Express train provides daily service between Lokmanya Tilak Terminus and Patliputra, facilitating travel between Maharashtra and Bihar.
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Lokmanya Tilak Terminus–Kamakhya Karmabhoomi Express: This train connects Mumbai to Kamakhya Junction in Guwahati, Assam, traversing through the scenic landscapes of eastern India.
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Lokmanya Tilak Terminus–Dibrugarh Express: Part of the Northeast Frontier Railway zone, this express train covers a long-distance route to Dibrugarh in Assam.
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Pawan Express: It links Lokmanya Tilak Terminus with Jaynagar in Bihar, offering vital rail connectivity.
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Lokmanya Tilak Terminus–Ernakulam Duronto Express: As a Duronto Express, this bi-weekly train provides a fast, nonstop service between Mumbai and Kochi, Kerala.
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Lokmanya Tilak Terminus–Coimbatore Express: This daily express service connects Mumbai with Coimbatore, offering essential rail connectivity to Tamil Nadu.
Strategic Importance
The strategic location of the terminus in the Kurla suburb allows it to serve as a critical point for the dispersal of train services in multiple directions, reinforcing Mumbai's status as a major transportation hub in India. It plays a pivotal role in decongesting the more crowded Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and Mumbai Central.