Karachi Railway Station, also referred to as Karachi Cantt Station, is situated right in the middle of the city’s main cantonment area. Being the second-oldest railway station in the city after Karachi City Station, Karachi Cantt Station’s stunning architecture reflects its extensive past.
Graana.com provides a comprehensive overview of this historic Karachi Railway Station below.
History of Karachi Railway Station
Formerly known as Frere Street Station, it was built between 1986 and 1988 by the Pakistan Public Works Department. The station played a crucial role in the Scinde railway system, which linked Karachi’s port with other regions of the nation. An antique steam engine has been placed at the entrance of Karachi Railway Station to honour its illustrious past.
The structure still appears as majestic as it did when it was first built, with its colonial-style layout and a high-arch ceiling. Sindh government has declared the megacity’s historical monument as a protected heritage structure. The Pakistan Railways operates and maintains Karachi Cantt Station, which is still one of the busiest railway junctions in Pakistan.
Location
Situated in the main cantonment area of the city, Karachi Railway Station sits right in the middle of the city and is under the control of Frere Town. Avari Towers, Movenpick, Marriott, and Pearl Continental are a few of the finest hotels in the city that are situated near the station, making it extremely convenient for travellers.
To reach the station from prominent areas like Gulshan-e-Iqbal, P.E.C.H.S, Nazimadad and Gulistan-e-Jauhar, it is recommended to go via Sharah-e-Faisal. Karachi Cantonment Station is also just a short drive away from Saddar Town and the old city region, where you can find numerous eateries.
For instance, you can go to Burns Road, one of Karachi’s oldest and busiest street foods, if you’re in the mood for traditional street food. Popular restaurants in the area include Waheed Kabab House, Mazedar Haleem, Food Centre, and Delhi Rabri House. Many travellers tend to grab a bite after reaching the station.
Facilities at Karachi Railway Station
Currently, Karachi Cantt Station is one of Pakistan’s largest railway stations. It has five platforms and eight train tracks to accommodate passengers. There is also a workforce of porters who are available to help with your luggage.
You will also find a number of snack shops on the main platform of the station. You can quickly get a rickshaw, minibus or cab as soon as you arrive at the Karachi Cantonment Station.
Trains at Karachi Railway Station
In the table below, some of the most significant train routes that stop at city station Karachi have been listed.
| Train | Train Code | Starts From | Ends At |
| Shalimar Express | 27 UP | Karachi Cantt. | Lahore |
| Hazara Express | 11 UP | Karachi City | Havelian |
| Sindh Express | 29 UP | Karachi Cantt. | Multan Cantt. |
| Pakistan Express | 45 UP | Karachi Cantt. | Rawalpindi |
| Allama Iqbal Express | 09 UP | Karachi Cantt. | Sialkot |
| Jinnah Express | 31 UP | Karachi Cantt. | Lahore |
| Karakoram Express | 41 UP | Karachi Cantt. | Lahore |
| Pak Business Express | 33 UP | Karachi Cantt. | Lahore |
| Mehran Express | 149 UP | Karachi City | Mirpur Khas |
| Karachi Express | 15 UP | Karachi Cantt. | Lahore |
| Millat Express | 17 UP | Karachi Cantt. | Malakwal |
| Tezgam Express | 07 UP | Karachi Cantt. | Rawalpindi |
| Bahauddin Zakariya Express | 25 UP | Karachi City | Multan Cantt. |
| Bolan Mail Express | 03 UP | Karachi City | Quetta |
| Shah Hussain Express | 43 UP | Karachi Cantt. | Lahore |
| Fareed Express | 37 UP | Karachi City | Lahore |
| Khushal Khan Khattak Express | 19 UP | Karachi City | Peshawar Cantt. |
| Sir Syed Express | 35 UP | Karachi Cantt. | Rawalpindi |
| Green Line Express | 05 UP | Karachi Cantt. | Islamabad |
| Khyber Mail Express | 01 UP | Karachi Cantt. | Peshawar Cantt. |
| Sukkur Express | 145 UP | Karachi City | Jacobabad |
| Awam Express | 13 UP | Karachi Cantt. | Peshawar Cantt. |
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FAQs
What is the name of the railway station in Karachi?
The main railway station in Karachi is called the “Karachi Cantt Railway Station.” It serves as a major railway hub in the city.
Which is the biggest railway station in Pakistan?
The largest railway station in Pakistan is the “Lahore Junction Railway Station,” located in Lahore. It is considered the busiest and most significant railway station in the country.
What is the route of the Karachi railway?
The route includes connections to various cities and towns within Pakistan. Conversely, the railway network connects Karachi to destinations such as Lahore, Rawalpindi, Quetta, Peshawar, and other major cities.
How many platforms are there at Karachi railway station?
It has several platforms to facilitate the movement of trains.
