The Indian railway system is truly amazing. It links small towns to bustling cities, deserts to mountains, and ports to factories. Millions use these trains for both long-distance and daily commutes on a daily basis. Goods trains also carry vital commodities like coal, steel, and minerals across the country. While most big stations are known for their endless tracks and wide platforms, there are smaller stations that are just as important. One such minor wonder is the Banspani Railway Station in Odisha.
India’s Smallest Railway Station In Odisha
Situated in the Keonjhar district of Odisha, the small town of Banspani is home to the Banspani Railway Station (BSPX). Although it is India’s smallest train station, its importance far outweighs its small size. Compared to the massive stations in India, this station is small, with only one platform and a length of 140 metres. Yet, its importance is not diminished by its size, particularly when it comes to the transportation of goods.
Banspani is a major transportation hub for iron ore despite its small size. It is India’s second-largest iron ore loading station, after Jaroli Railway Station, which has the nation’s highest iron ore loading record. The station holds value to the mineral-rich area around Banspani, as it carries large amounts of iron ore to industries and factories in different parts of the country. Despite its modest appearance, Banspani promotes the industrial development of the country.
Banspani Station Matters More Than Its Size Suggests
For passengers, Banspani serves mostly local travellers rather than long-distance visitors. Only four trains pass through the station:
- Barbil–Puri–Barbil Indian Class Intercity Express
- Brahmapur–Tatanagar Vande Bharat Express
- Puri–Anand Vihar Terminal Weekly Express
- Visakhapatnam–Tatanagar Weekly Late Express
Because of the short platform, long express trains cannot stop fully here. The station offers basic facilities, including a small waiting area and minimal passenger services. Not a bustling hub, but this station is supposed to be a place for travellers to stop and an important location for cargo. Yes, India’s rail network is vast and crowded, but Banspani is a small station that quietly does its job.
Whether you’ve been to Banspani Railway Station or you’re even just reading about it, it certainly gives you a fresh perspective on Indian Railways.
Cover Image Courtesy: OdishaRailUsers – Multimodal Connectivity Forum/X
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