Karachi Cantt City Station is one of the most important and busiest railway stations in Pakistan, located near Dr. Daudpota Road, Saddar, Karachi Cantt. It was built in 1898 and has a rich history and heritage. It is one of the country’s oldest and busiest railway stations, serving as a major transportation hub for travellers going to and from Karachi.
The station is operated by Pakistan Railways and offers a range of facilities to passengers, including waiting rooms, ticket counters, refreshment stalls, and restrooms.
In this blog, Graana.com has gathered information on Karachi Cantt station, its history, services, and more.
History of Karachi Cantt Station
The Karachi Cantt Station was originally called Frere Street Station and was built between 1896 and 1898. It was part of the Scinde railway network that connected Karachi’s port to the rest of the country.
The station has a colonial-style architecture with a high-arched ceiling and a grand facade. Due to its historical significance, the station is now a protected heritage site by the Sindh government.
Role in the British Raj era
The Karachi Cantt Station played a vital role in the British Raj era as it was the main railway junction for trade and travel in the region. It also served as a military base for the British troops stationed in Karachi.
The station witnessed many historical events, such as the arrival of Mahatma Gandhi in 1916, the departure of Lord Mountbatten in 1947, and the assassination of Liaquat Ali Khan in 1951.
Changes and developments over time
The Karachi Cantt Station has undergone many changes and developments over time to cope with the increasing demand and population of the city. Its platforms, tracks, and facilities have expanded to accommodate more trains and passengers.
It has also modernised its services and amenities such as ticketing, cargo, security, and food outlets. The station is now one of Pakistan’s busiest and largest railway stations and serves as a hub for intercity and suburban trains.
Facilities and Services
Karachi Cantt Station has all basic facilities for passengers and visitors. It has current and advanced reservation offices for Pakistan Railways and cargo and parcel facilities. It also has retail shops on platform 1, including restaurants such as Rehmat-e-Shereen and Pizza Hut.
The station has five platforms and eight tracks and can accommodate up to 56 trains per day. The station operates trains to different cities of the country, such as Lahore, Peshawar, Multan, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Quetta, and more. Some of the famous trains that stop at Karachi Cantt Station are:
| Train Number | Train Name | Origin | Destination |
| 27 UP | Shalimar Express | Terminus | Lahore |
| 11 UP | Hazara Express | Karachi City | Havelian |
| 13 UP | Awam Express | Origin | Peshawar Cantt |
| 151 UP | Shah Latif Express | Karachi City | Mirpur Khas |
| 29 UP | Sindh Express | Terminus | Multan Cantt |
| 47 UP | Rehman Baba Express | Terminus | Peshawar Cantt |
| 45 UP | Pakistan Express | Terminus | Rawalpindi |
| 09 UP | Allama Iqbal Express | Terminus | Sialkot |
| 31 UP | Jinnah Express | Terminus | Lahore |
| 41 UP | Karakorum Express | Terminus | Lahore |
| 33 UP | Pak Business Express | Terminus | Lahore |
| 149 UP | Mehran Express | Karachi City | Mirpur Khas |
| 15 UP | Karachi Express | Terminus | Lahore |
| 17 UP | Millat Express | Terminus | Malakwal |
| 07 UP | Tezgam Express | Terminus | Rawalpindi |
| 25 UP | Bahaudin Zakriya Express | Karachi City | Multan Cantt |
| 03 UP | Bolan Mail Express | Karachi City | Quetta |
| 43 UP | Shah Hussain Express | Terminus | Lahore |
| 37 UP | Fareed Express | Karachi City | Lahore |
| 19 UP | Khushal Khan Khattak Express | Karachi City | Peshawar Cantt |
| 35 UP | Sir Syed Express | Terminus | Rawalpindi |
| 05 UP | Green Line Express | Terminus | Islamabad |
| 01 UP | Khyber Mail Express | Terminus | Peshawar Cantt |
| 145 UP | Sukker Express | Karachi City | Jacobabad |
| 405 UP | Thar Express | Terminus | Zero Point |
Tips for Travelers Karachi Cantt Station:
If you are planning to visit or use Karachi Cantt Station, here are some tips that might help you:
- The station is easily accessible by public transport, such as buses, taxis, rickshaws, and online ride-hailing services. You can also walk to the station from nearby areas such as Saddar, Empress Market, Frere Hall, etc.
- The station is open 24 hours a day, but the best time to visit is during the day when it is less crowded and more secure.
- The station has a waiting area for passengers, but it is not very comfortable or spacious. You might want to bring your own snacks and drinks, as the food options at the station are limited and expensive.
- The station has a luggage storage facility, but it is unreliable. You might want to keep your valuables with you at all times.
- The station has a security check at the entrance, where you have to show your ticket and ID card. You might also have to go through a metal detector and a baggage scanner. Be prepared to cooperate with the security staff and follow their instructions.
- The station has a public announcement system that announces the arrival and departure of trains. You might also want to check the display boards or ask the staff for information about your train schedule and platform number.
- The station has a mosque where you can offer prayers if you are a Muslim. You might also find some other places of worship nearby, such as churches and temples.
- The station is close to some of Karachi’s famous landmarks and attractions, such as Quaid-e-Azam’s Mausoleum, National Museum of Pakistan, Frere Hall, Empress Market, etc. You might want to explore these places if you have some spare time.
Attraction Near Karachi Cantt Station
Here are some popular options:
Quaid-e-Azam Mausoleum
The final resting place of the founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, is located just 7 kilometres away from Karachi Cantt Station. It is a must-visit place for anyone interested in Pakistan’s history.
Mohatta Palace Museum
A beautiful palace turned museum, the Mohatta Palace is located just 10 kilometres away from the station. It has a collection of historical artefacts and artwork.
Frere Hall
Frere Hall is a colonial-era building 8 kilometers away from the station, and it is a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities. It has a beautiful garden and hosts art exhibitions.
Karachi Zoological Gardens
Located 13 kilometres from the station, it is one of the oldest zoos in Pakistan and has a variety of animals, birds, and reptiles.
National Museum of Pakistan
National Museum is a museum showcasing Pakistan’s history and culture, located 9 kilometres from the station.
Mazar-e-Quaid Park
A park located just next to the Quaid-e-Azam Mausoleum, it is a popular spot for families to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Pakistan Maritime Museum
A museum dedicated to the maritime museum of Pakistan located 12 kilometres away from the station. It has a collection of ship models, naval equipment, and artefacts.
Clifton Beach
A famous beach in Pakistan located 14 kilometres away from the station, it is a great place to relax, enjoy the sunset and indulge in some water sports.
FAQs
Q: Where is Karachi Cantt Station located?
A: Karachi Cantt Station is located in the Saddar Town area of Karachi, Pakistan.
Q: How can I book a train ticket from Karachi Cantt Station?
A: You can book a train ticket from Karachi Cantt Station through several ways. You can visit the station’s current or advance reservation offices and buy a ticket in person.
You can also call the railway inquiries helpline at 117 and book a ticket over the phone. Alternatively, you can use online platforms such as the Pakistan Railways e-ticketing system or third-party websites or apps to book a ticket online.
Q: What are the modes of transportation available to and from Karachi Cantt Station?
A: Karachi Cantt Station is well-connected by road and is easily accessible by taxis, buses, and rickshaws.
Q: What are the facilities available at Karachi Cantt Station?
A: The station offers a range of facilities, including waiting rooms, ticket counters, refreshment stalls, and restrooms.
Q: Can I book train tickets online for Karachi Cantt Station?
A: Yes, you can book train tickets online through the Pakistan Railways website or various other online ticket booking portals.
Q: How far is Karachi Cantt Station from Jinnah International Airport?
A: Karachi Cantt Station is approximately 14 kilometres from Jinnah International Airport and can be easily reached by taxi or bus.
Q: Are there any nearby hotels to Karachi Cantt Station?
A: Yes, there are several hotels located in the vicinity of Karachi Cantt Station that offer comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices.
Q: What are the popular tourist attractions near Karachi Cantt Station?
A: Some popular tourist attractions near Karachi Cantt Station include the National Museum of Pakistan, Frere Hall, the Karachi Zoo, and the Quaid-e-Azam Mausoleum.
Q: Is Karachi Cantt Station safe for travellers?
A: Yes, Karachi Cantt Station is generally considered safe for travellers. However, taking the necessary precautions and being alert when travelling in any unfamiliar area is always advisable.
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