India boasts one of the largest and busiest railway networks in the world. Among its many marvels is the Hubballi Junction railway station in Karnataka, home to the longest railway platform in India —and the world. Officially inaugurated in March 2023, this massive platform has not only etched its name in the record books but also stands as a proud testament to the country’s infrastructural advancement.
A Record-Breaking Marvel
The platform at Hubballi Junction (station code: UBL) stretches an incredible 1,507 meters (4,944 feet). With this, it surpassed the previous record held by Gorakhpur Junction in Uttar Pradesh, whose platform measures around 1,366.33 meters.
The new platform was built as part of a redevelopment project by the South Western Railway (SWR) zone to improve train handling capacity, passenger convenience, and overall infrastructure. The construction of this mega-platform was completed with modern design elements, and it is fully equipped to accommodate long-haul trains with multiple coaches.
Why It Matters
Having a platform of such length isn’t just about breaking records—it plays a crucial functional role. Here's why it’s significant:
Better Train Operations: The longer platform allows handling of trains with more than 24 coaches efficiently.
Improved Passenger Flow: Passengers can board and deboard safely without overcrowding, even during peak travel seasons.
Future-Ready: As the number of passengers and freight traffic continues to rise, infrastructure like this ensures India is ready to meet future demands.
Boost to Hubballi's Status
Hubballi is a key railway hub in Karnataka, serving as the headquarters of the South Western Railway. With this platform, the city has now gained recognition not only for its strategic importance in railway connectivity but also as a landmark in Indian rail history.
Moreover, the enhanced station is expected to contribute to the regional economy, attract tourism, and support the transport of goods and services in the growing Hubballi-Dharwad twin city region.
Conclusion
India's longest railway platform at Hubballi Junction is more than just a world record—it is a symbol of how Indian Railways is evolving to meet the demands of a growing nation. As the country continues to modernize its rail infrastructure, this achievement stands as a shining example of innovation, scale, and service.