A railway station is the facility where trains stop in order to load and unload passengers and freight. There are several types of stations: Terminus, Ro-Ro, Interchange, and Unpaid. These stations have different names and functions. You should be familiar with them before traveling by train. The main function of a railway station is to connect commuter trains from one place to another.
Terminus
The Terminus railway station in Mumbai, India is a major hub for the transport industry, with the capacity to handle millions of passengers every day. The station was built in 1878 and has been expanded several times since then. The original station had four platforms. A second station was constructed alongside it in 1929. Both stations handle different kinds of trains, primarily suburban commuter trains.
Ro-Ro
A Ro-Ro railway station is designed so that trains can come and go from it without waiting for other trains. This type of railway station is suitable for low-traffic stations but not for high-traffic stations. Ro-Ro stations have separated in and out-lines. Since Ro-Ro trains travel at high speed, they do not have to wait for other trains to leave.
Interchange
An interchange at a railway station is a facility where passengers can change trains. Also known as a transfer station, an interchange station allows passengers to change routes without paying additional fare. Many of these facilities are within a single station.
Unpaid
Unpaid at railway station workers are on strike. Since February, tens of thousands of railway workers have not been paid. This is due to a four-month funding delay. As a result, many units have had to borrow money to cover salaries. Many workers are struggling to make ends meet. Some have been at their job for over 10 years.
Payable
Currently, the railways have a few ways to collect payment from its passengers. The public can pay by cash, credit notes, bank drafts and e-payment. They may also have a weight-only system or accept Rupee Traveller cheques for payment. South Western Railway estimates that about 2,000 cars and two-wheelers pass through the station every day.
Maintenance
Maintenance is a crucial component of railway operations. As the railway is made up of complex electrical and mechanical systems, proper maintenance is vital to its safety and performance. Regular maintenance reduces operating costs and ensures smooth running of trains. It also reduces downtime. Dedicated maintenance facilities are necessary to store and repair trains. While the basic structure of maintenance facilities has not changed significantly over the last century, modern maintenance practices present unique challenges.
