Rajkot is an important hub in Gujarat’s railway network, serving as a major link between several key cities in India. The city’s well-connected railway system plays a significant role in promoting trade, tourism, and daily commuting. Managed by the Western Railway Zone, Rajkot’s railway services offer convenience, affordability, and a gateway to various destinations across the country.
The Rajkot Junction Railway Station (Station Code: RJT) is the primary railway station in the city. It is centrally located, making it easily accessible from different parts of Rajkot. The station is a vital stop on the Ahmedabad–Okha and Rajkot–Veraval railway lines, connecting the city to several regional and national destinations.
Key Features:
Facilities: Rajkot Junction is equipped with modern amenities, including waiting rooms, food stalls, inquiry counters, restrooms, and clean platforms. Elevators and escalators ensure ease of access for all passengers.
Passenger Services: The station has computerized ticketing systems, reservation counters, and online booking facilities for convenience.
Platforms: The station has multiple platforms that cater to long-distance trains, regional trains, and goods trains.
Parking and Accessibility: Ample parking facilities are available for cars and two-wheelers, along with auto-rickshaws and taxis for local commuting.
Rajkot is well-connected by rail to cities across Gujarat and other parts of India, making it a vital transportation hub.
Key Routes:
Rajkot to Ahmedabad: Frequent trains connect Rajkot to Ahmedabad, a journey that takes approximately 4 to 5 hours.
Rajkot to Mumbai: Several express trains, including the Saurashtra Mail and Saurashtra Express, connect Rajkot to Mumbai.
Rajkot to Delhi: Long-distance trains like the Rajkot–Delhi Sarai Rohilla Express connect Rajkot to the national capital.
Rajkot to Veraval: This route connects Rajkot to popular destinations like Somnath and Girnar for tourism.
Rajkot to Okha/Dwarka: This line serves religious tourists visiting Dwarka, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites.
Popular Trains:
Saurashtra Express
Saurashtra Mail
Veraval Express
Hapa Superfast Express
Somnath Express
Rajkot Junction is a significant center for freight services, supporting the city’s industries and economy. Goods trains transport a variety of commodities, including agricultural produce, machinery, textiles, and petroleum products, to and from Rajkot.
The Indian Railways is continually working to enhance services in Rajkot with several upcoming developments:
Electrification: Rail lines in and around Rajkot are being electrified to promote eco-friendly and efficient train services.
High-Speed Rail Connectivity: Proposals for high-speed rail corridors aim to shorten travel times between Rajkot and other key cities.
Modernization of Stations: Efforts are underway to upgrade Rajkot Junction with better facilities, improved cleanliness, and digital information systems.
In addition to Rajkot Junction, the city has smaller railway stations serving local and regional needs:
Bhaktinagar Railway Station: Primarily handles passenger trains and serves areas near Bhaktinagar.
Madhapar Railway Station: A minor station catering to suburban areas of Rajkot.
Ribda and Gondal Stations: Located near Rajkot, these stations serve smaller towns and villages.
Passengers can book tickets for trains to and from Rajkot through various methods:
Online Booking: Via the official Indian Railways website (www.irctc.co.in) or mobile apps.
Reservation Counters: Available at Rajkot Junction for on-the-spot bookings and inquiries.
Helpline Services:
General Inquiry: 139
Railway Police: 182
IRCTC Customer Care: 1800-110-139
The railway system in Rajkot is a lifeline for the city, offering affordable and efficient connectivity to the rest of Gujarat and beyond. With its modern infrastructure and plans for future expansion, the railways continue to play a crucial role in Rajkot’s growth as a commercial and cultural hub. Whether traveling for business, leisure, or pilgrimage, Rajkot’s railways provide a convenient and comfortable mode of transportation for millions of passengers each year.
