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Pune Railway Station: A Historical Landmark Celebrates 99 Years with Modern Amenities
Pune Railway Station, an architectural landmark and a symbol of the city's rich history, celebrated its 99th anniversary enthusiastically at Platform No.1. On July 27, passengers, locals, and railway employees came together to honour this iconic landmark.
Pune, July 29, 2023: The station’s main building, erected by Sir Leslie Wilson, the then Governor of Bombay Province, on July 27, 1925, contains a history of the princely states’ era and the city’s remarkable development.
With a history spanning more than a century, Pune Railway Station is a monument to the changing tides of time and progress in India’s rail network. As the state’s cultural capital, Pune, the station plays a vital role in transportation.
The past history of Pune Railway Station
Before the grand tower that we see today, the history of Pune Railway Station dates back to a simpler time. The station’s origin can be traced to a single-storey black stone building with a Kawelu-covered roof and its main entrance at the centre. As the city’s importance grew, so did the need for better infrastructure to handle increasing railway traffic. The station underwent significant redevelopment in 1920, resulting in the stunning structure you see today. The construction work came at Rs 5 lakhs, an investment that would shape the city’s future.
Preserving history with modern amenities
Today, the Pune Railway Station is a historical landmark and a prime example of blending the past with modern necessities. The architectural splendour of the station is evident in its sloping red Kawelu roof atop the white-coloured edifice, showcasing traditional Indian design. The station’s two-storey building boasts spacious verandahs on both floors, while large rooms on the first floor now serve as retirement rooms, preserving the building’s original charm.
However, preservation efforts go beyond maintaining the physical structure. The station’s authorities have diligently integrated modern amenities appropriate to the needs of today’s travellers without compromising its historical significance. This harmonious balance ensures that visitors can experience the nostalgia of the past while enjoying the conveniences of the present.
Looking forward: A legacy for generations
As the 99th-anniversary celebration unfolded, the importance of Pune Railway Station as a historical and cultural symbol was evident. Harsha Shah, the founder of the Railway Pravasi Group in Pune, highlighted the station’s heritage status and expressed hope for UNESCO World Heritage Site recognition, underscoring its significance for the city and on the global stage.
With the centennial milestone on the horizon, the Pune Railway Station represents the city’s past and future. The station’s journey from its humble beginnings to becoming a bustling railway hub showcases Pune’s growth and progress. As development efforts continue to preserve its heritage while embracing modernity, Pune Railway Station remains a source of pride for the people and a welcoming gateway to the city.
Pune Railway Station’s 99th-anniversary celebration commemorates and preserves the city’s rich cultural heritage. Pune’s station remains a historical landmark even as it evolves and adapts to changing times. With eyes set on the future, Pune Railway Station eagerly awaits its 100th anniversary as it prepares to connect generations and bridge the gap between past and present.
