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This Is India`s Smallest Railway Station: It Can`t Even Hold An Express Train
The Indian Railways has 7,349 stations spread across nook and corners of India. The Indian railway network is vast, featuring 7,349 stations. It operates 13,169 passenger trains and 8,479 freight trains daily, serving 23 million passengers and transporting 3 million tons of freight each day. While there are thousands of stations, one of them holds distinction for being the smallest. Here are some interesting facts about Banspani Railway Station, often considered one of the smallest railway stations in India:
Banspani Location
Banspani Railway Station is situated in the Keonjhar district of Odisha, India. It primarily serves the small town of Banspani and its surrounding areas.
Platform and Structure
The station features a very minimalistic infrastructure, often characterized by a single platform with basic amenities. Its small size and limited facilities contribute to its recognition as one of India's smallest railway stations. With paltform length just around 200m, the station can't fully house express trains whose length can be up to 500 meters.
Banspani Connectivity
Despite its small size, Banspani Railway Station is an important link for the transportation of minerals. The region is rich in minerals, especially iron ore, and the station plays a key role in freight transport.
Passenger Services
Banspani primarily serves local passengers. The station sees limited passenger train services, focusing more on catering to the needs of the local population and the mining industry.
Scenic Environment
Located amidst the natural beauty of Odisha, the station is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, making it a quaint and scenic spot for travelers. The station's remote location and small size contribute to its tranquil and quiet atmosphere, offering a stark contrast to the bustling, larger railway stations found in urban areas.
Historical Background
Banspani Railway Station has grown in importance with the development of the mining industry in the region. Its establishment was driven by the need to transport minerals efficiently.
Economic Importance
The station is crucial for the local economy due to its role in the transportation of minerals. The freight trains that pass through Banspani carry significant quantities of iron ore and other minerals to various parts of the country.
Role in Local Connectivity
Banspani serves as a crucial link for local communities, providing them with access to larger towns and cities, thereby facilitating movement and trade within the region.