Do you know the difference between Central, Terminus, and Junctions in India's Railway System?

By Ishwi Singh  |  First Published May 15, 2024, 10:47 AM IST

India's railway system is the primary mode of transportation for the majority of the population. Today, let’s learn the differences between the terms Central, Terminus, and Junctions.

India's vast railway network is an essential component of the country's transportation infrastructure. Within this extensive network, there are various types of railway stations, each serving different purposes. While travelling in the railways, you must have come across the three different terms namely, Central, Terminus, and Junctions. If you’re not aware about the differences between these three, keep on reading. 

Central Station

A Central railway station typically serves as a primary railway station within a city or metropolitan area. These stations are often the busiest, oldest, and most significant in terms of railway transportation system. Central stations usually offer a wide range of facilities, including ticketing counters, waiting areas, food stalls, and other passenger services.

Examples of Central stations include Mumbai Central and Chennai Central.

Terminus Station

Terminus stations, also known as End stations, are railway stations that mark the end or starting point of a particular railway line or route. Unlike Central stations, which are situated within urban areas, Terminus stations are often located on the outskirts of cities or in village areas. These stations typically have fewer platforms and facilities as compared to Central stations.

Famous Terminus stations in India include Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), New Delhi Railway Station, and Chennai's Egmore. 

Junction Station

Junction stations act as points where multiple railway lines intersect. These stations play a crucial role in facilitating train transfers and route changes for passengers travelling between different destinations. Junction stations are characterized by their multiple platforms, facilities, and expansive signalling systems to manage train movements efficiently.

Examples include Secunderabad Junction in Telangana, Itarsi Junction in Madhya Pradesh, Allahabad Junction in Uttar Pradesh, and Vijayawada Junction in Andhra Pradesh.

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