Victoria Terminus

Introduction:

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus which is an important railway station in Mumbai was earlier known by the name of Victoria Terminus. This magnificient building was constructed for a period of 10 years.

The construction work started in 1878 and was completed in the year 1888. The building was designed by F.W .Stevens, a famous architect of Britain. In 1882, on the occasion of new year's eve this railway station started its operation in Mumbai.

The Victoria Terminus resembles the St Pancras Station in London to some extent. The unique features of Victoria Terminus include the stained windows, flying buttresses and the stone friezes carvings. The building represents the typical Gothic style in its architectural work and decor. The victorious statue of Progress stands at the top of the central dome. The administrative work of the Central Railways is carried out in one of the portions of the building. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is the southern end point of the rail transportation system in Mumbai.

For a long time, the Victoria Terminus building has it name on the urban heritage list. Om 2nd July 1994,it's name was entered on the UNESCO world heritage list. The Victoria Terminus was renamed on 4rth March in the year 1996 and it derived its new name after Queen Empress. An underground subway was constructed to make the travelers waikimg to the railway station more easier and convenient.

How to reach there:

By Rail
Mumbai boasts of an extensive network of rail tracks, which connects the city with all parts of the nation. It houses the headquarters of Central Railways and Western Railways. Besides Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminal - the major one, there are other railway stations at Bombay Central, Churchgate, Dadar and Kurla. One can board trains from here to any place across the country.

By Road
The National Highways No. 3, 4, 6, 8, 9 and 17 pass through the city, making it accessible from all parts of the country. Besides these National Highways, the Mumbai-Pune expressway traverses through the city. Many long distance buses leave from the State Transport Terminal, which is located opposite Mumbai's Central Railway Station. Many deluxe buses connect Mumbai with all tourist destinations within and outside the state. One can always hire car to move around the city and its suburbs.