The Kapurthala Railway Station: A Study in Billabong Between the Tracks

India is a diverse country with a vast network of railway stations, each with its own unique characteristics. However, my recent experience at Kapurthala Railway Station during a Services Selection Board (SSB) interview gave me a glimpse of some of the worst facilities in the country.

Personal Experience and Background

On February 25, 2019, my journey began with a visit to the services selection center in Kapurthala, Punjab. As a major town in Kapurthala District, Kapurthala is known for its Rail Coach Factory and the Indian Army Officers Selection Center, making it a bustling hub.

With the SSB interview behind me, I was journeying back to Gwalior via the Diesel Passenger Train from Kapurthala to Jalandhar City. The train was scheduled to depart at 1600 hours, but it took an hour more than expected to cover just 13 kilometers. This delay set the tone for the entire trip, culminating in a late arrival at Jalandhar City at 1830 hours.

Facilities and Negatives

At Kapurthala Railway Station, one of the key negatives was the station size. The station is small with only two platforms, lacking any significant facilities for the travelers. The station did not even have a properly equipped waiting area for passengers. Instead, there was only a small shop outside the premises, which demanded exorbitant prices for drinking water. The facility was also not equipped with a 500-liter water tank, leaving travelers to rely on the limited water supply. The station also lacked communication facilities like OLA or other ride-sharing options, forcing passengers to rely on government buses and autos.

Security was another issue. There was only one Government Railway Police Chowki (Police Checkpost) at the station, making it difficult for travelers to report incidents or seek help. Compounding the lack of security, the reservation counter was a single-windowed setup, which made the process of booking tickets cumbersome.

Positives and Greenery

While the station had its share of negatives, it also had some positives. The station had a large number of benches, allowing passengers to sit and rest. The surrounding greenery made for a pleasant environment, providing a place for passengers to enjoy their waiting time. As one passenger aptly put it, you could 'sit and enjoy your moment while waiting'.

Conclusion

My personal experience at Kapurthala Railway Station highlighted some of the worst facilities in the Indian railway network. It is a stark reminder of the need for improvement in the infrastructure and services offered at such stations. While it may have some positives, the inadequacies in terms of amenities, security, and overall facilities make it a challenging experience for travelers.

For travelers seeking a more comfortable journey, it would be wise to opt for better-equipped stations with more comprehensive facilities.