In 1853 the first railway started of 33.6 km from mumbai to Thana. New lines were opened thereafter the permanent way covered 3396,031 km. In 1947 when India became independant, the length covered was 543,760 km.

Currently the Indian Railway is the second largest Railway system in the world under the single the single management & also the biggest employer in the world. The railway in India provides the principal mode of transportation for freight & passenger. It brings together people from the farthest corners of the country & makes possible the conduct of business sightseeing, pilgrimage & education. It has played a vital role in the economic, industrial & social development of the country.