India’s last railway station with a legacy beyond borders | Fusion - WeRIndia

Indian Railways, often hailed as the lifeline of the nation, forms the backbone of India’s transport and logistics systems.

With over 13,000 trains running daily across more than 7,000 stations and covering 68,000 kilometres, it connects 25 million passengers every day.

But tucked away in the Malda district of West Bengal lies a lesser-known gem, Singhabad, officially recognized as India’s last railway station.

Located in the Habibpur area on the India-Bangladesh border, Singhabad Railway Station marks the final point of the Indian rail network before crossing into Bangladesh.

Although passenger trains no longer stop here, the station still stands with platforms, signboards, and railway staff. A board at the site proudly reads, “India’s Last Railway Station.”

Historically, Singhabad played a key role during British rule, with trains running from here to Dhaka.

It was more than just a transit point; leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Subhas Chandra Bose once journeyed through this station, lending it a strong connection to India’s freedom movement.

However, following India’s independence and the formation of Bangladesh in 1971, the station’s role shifted.

In 1978, an agreement between India and Bangladesh allowed freight trains to operate through Singhabad, reviving its utility in trade.

Furthermore, a significant amendment in 2011 expanded Singhabad’s function even more.

It was designated as a transit point for goods between Nepal and Bangladesh, enhancing its strategic role in regional logistics and international trade.

While the hustle of passengers is absent today, the silence at Singhabad speaks volumes of its rich past and evolving relevance.

From facilitating legendary leaders to driving cross-border trade, Singhabad stands as a testament to how even the quietest corners of India’s vast railway network continue to shape history and progress.

So, next time you think of iconic railway stations in India, remember the story of Singhabad, where the tracks may pause, but history doesn’t stop.

Image from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Published on March 06, 2017

Image Reference: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/999092