Lucknow's Railway Stations Renamed, Akhilesh Criticizes BJP's Priorities

Eight railway stations in the Lucknow division of Northern Railways have been renamed after saints and freedom fighters, officials confirmed. The renaming has sparked criticism from Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, who urged the BJP government to focus on improving railway station conditions and preventing train accidents.

The renaming order issued by Northern Railways includes several changes. Kasimpur Halt Railway Station is now Jais City Railway Station, Jais is renamed Guru Gorakhnath Dham, Misrauli becomes Maa Kalikan Dham, and Bani is now Swami Paramhans. Additionally, Nihalgarh Railway Station is renamed Maharaja Bijli Pasi Railway Station, Akbarganj becomes Maa Ahorwa Bhawani Dham, Warisganj is now Amar Shahid Bhale Sultan, and Fursatganj is renamed Tapeshwarnath Dham.

Renaming Driven by Cultural Preservation

Former Amethi MP Smriti Irani had advocated for the renaming to preserve the cultural identity and heritage of the area. She announced the name changes on social media in March. A senior railway official explained that Kasimpur Halt was named after a distant village, so Jais City was proposed as a more appropriate name.

The official further elaborated that the prominent Guru Gorakhnath Dham ashram near Jais station influenced its new name. Similarly, temples of Lord Shiva and Goddess Kali near Mishrauli, Bani, Akbarganj, and Fursatganj stations led to their respective renamings.

Community Significance and Historical References

Nihalgarh station's new name honours Maharaja Bijli Pasi, reflecting the area's significant Pasi population. Warisganj station was renamed to commemorate Bhale Sultan's bravery during the 1857 uprising against British rule.

Akhilesh Yadav criticised the renaming initiative, stating, "The BJP government is requested to also change the condition of railway stations along with the names. And when you are done with changing the names, think about preventing record-breaking rail accidents."

The renaming of these stations aims to reflect local cultural and historical significance. However, it has also highlighted ongoing concerns about railway infrastructure and safety.