Architectural marvel
CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, previously Victoria Terminus) was built in 1878 as an outstanding example of Victorian-Gothic architecture in India. Recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997 and recognized as such by most photographers; today it ranks second as an architectural marvel within India.
The terminus railway station is a bustling railway hub with some corners that showcase British history. This bustling hub serves hundreds of express and suburban trains daily and approximately 30 lakh commuters daily; designed by British architect F.W. Stevens who combined Indian with British architectural influences in his designs.
Queen Victoria Station was constructed over ten years at a cost of over 260,000 Sterling Pounds over its lifespan, taking 10 years and costing 260,000 Sterling Pounds in total. It features beautiful architecture combining Indian with Victorian Gothic elements for an outstanding result.
The central dome is an octagonal with ribbed structure and serves as the centerpiece of this entire structure, depicting an image of a lady with torch in one hand and wheel with spokes in the other.
The courtyard is enclosed by side wings anchored with turrets at each corner, framing and balancing its central dome. It features many windows and arches along its exterior as well as figures depicting lions and tigers at its entrance. There are 11 intercity train platforms and 8 suburban train platforms at its terminus with air-conditioned dormitories providing about 20 beds for women and 58 for men.
Incredible stories
India's inaugural passenger train ran from Bori Bandar to Thane in 1853. To mark Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee celebrations in 1878, Victoria Terminus was rebuilt and later known officially as Bori Bandar Railway station until 1887 when Victoria Terminus officially replaced it as its name.
