VISAKHAPATNAM RAILWAY STATION MARKS 130 GLORIOUS YEARS WITH GRAND ‘STATION MAHOTSAV’ CELEBRATIONS*

Visakhaptnam Indian News Times - Commemorative Coffee Table Book Unveiled; General Manager Highlights Vision of "Virasat Bhi, Vikas Bhi"_

Visakhapatnam Railway Station marked its Birthday and celebrated ‘Station Mahotsav’ with grand heritage and cultural festivities, in line with the Ministry of Railways’ nationwide initiative to honor the historical significance and legacy of key railway stations across India. The landmark occasion traced the station’s historic journey from the erstwhile Waltair era to its present stature as one of the busiest and most dynamic transit hubs on the eastern coast. 

The celebrations commenced with an energetic Flag March, followed by a curated Historical Photo Exhibition and an Exhibition of Heritage Artefacts. The exhibitions showcased rare archival photographs, vintage memorabilia, and historic relics depicting the evolution, operational milestones, and rich legacy of the erstwhile Waltair Division and Visakhapatnam Railway Station. 

A major highlight of the day was the official release of the commemorative Coffee Table Book, titled "Waltair Visakhapatnam," capturing over a century of transformative history, iconic heritage structures, and rail milestones. The festivities also featured the ceremonial raising of a helium balloon, the distribution of commemorative mementoes, and vibrant cultural performances showcasing local art and traditions. 

Shri Sandeep Mathur, General Manager, South Coast Railway, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, alongside Shri Lalit Bohra, Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Visakhapatnam Division; Shri E. Santhram, ADRM (Infrastructure); Shri K. Ramarao, ADRM (Operations); branch officers, railway personnel, and heritage enthusiasts. 

In his address, General Manager Shri Sandeep Mathur stated: "Railway heritage is an invaluable part of our collective identity, embodying the relentless efforts of generations of railway personnel. From its modest origins in 1896 with just two platforms and a daily footfall of barely 200 passengers, Visakhapatnam Railway Station has grown into a bustling transit hub serving over 65,000 passengers daily across 8 platforms. As we advance our ongoing world-class redevelopment plans to expand the station to 14 platforms—creating a next-generation mobility center with modern amenities, seamless intermodal connectivity, and sustainable infrastructure—this extraordinary 130-year journey truly exemplifies our guiding ethos of 'Virasat Bhi, Vikas Bhi,' honoring our deep-rooted heritage while fearlessly embracing future-ready modernization, cutting-edge technology, and enhanced safety." 

Addressing the gathering, DRM Shri Lalit Bohra underscored the vision of honoring Visakhapatnam’s 130-year railway legacy—from Waltair to today—while actively transforming it into a modern, world-class transit hub. He extended heartfelt thanks to the people of Visakhapatnam for their steadfast support toward the station’s redevelopment.

                      Y Balaji Kiran

          Chief Public Relations Officer

                 South Coast Railway

                       Visakhapatnam