New Delhi Railway Station Paharganj Side

A Historical Perspective

The Paharganj area, whose name literally means “hilly neighborhood,” has roots that stretch back to the Mughal era. It was once a significant suburb outside the walled city of Shahjahanabad, serving as a principal grain market and a bustling commercial hub. With the construction of the New Delhi Railway Station in the 1920s, Paharganj’s landscape changed dramatically. The influx of travelers and the emergence of small eateries and hotels transformed it into a vibrant, if chaotic, neighborhood catering to both domestic and foreign tourists.

The station itself was inaugurated in 1956, with the Paharganj entrance being the first in India to offer common facilities for all passenger classes—a departure from the colonial-era segregation of amenities. This democratization of space set a precedent for railway stations across the country.

Paharganj Side: Structure and Access

The New Delhi Railway Station features 16 platforms, with the Paharganj entrance located at platform 1 and the Ajmeri Gate entrance at platform 16. The Paharganj side is particularly significant for its proximity to the bustling Paharganj market and its accessibility from major roads such as Chelmsford Road and Basant Lane. However, the area has long been plagued by congestion, narrow approach roads, and a lack of space for buses and vehicles to stop, making access challenging during peak hours.

To address these issues, Northern Railway has initiated plans to construct 11 kilometers of elevated corridors terminating at the station. These corridors will provide multiple entry points from various roads, easing traffic flow and passenger movement. The project also includes widening surrounding roads, which is expected to significantly reduce congestion for both passengers and vehicles.

Modernization and Facilities

The Paharganj side, like the rest of the station, is undergoing a major transformation. The redevelopment project, awarded in early 2025, aims to give the station “airport-like” facilities. The main station building will be divided into two sections—Paharganj and Ajmeri Gate—by a striking twin glass dome structure. The six-floor building will house platforms, arrival and departure concourses, waiting areas, and commercial spaces such as retail shops and lounges.

New buildings are also planned alongside platforms 1 and 16, replacing the old structures. These will include modern waiting rooms, passenger lounges, cloakrooms, and service areas, all designed to enhance the passenger experience. The station already boasts amenities such as executive lounges, escalators, water vending machines, souvenir shops, and round-the-clock food courts featuring both domestic and international outlets.

Security and Connectivity

Given the station’s enormous daily footfall—averaging 500,000 passengers and rising to 600,000 during festivals—security is a top priority. The Paharganj side, like the rest of the station, is monitored by over 150 CCTV cameras and staffed by personnel from the Government Railway Police, Railway Protection Force, and Delhi Police. The station is also well-integrated with the Delhi Metro network, ensuring seamless connectivity for travelers.

Paharganj: The Neighborhood Beyond the Station

Stepping out of the Paharganj entrance, travelers are immediately immersed in the area’s unique atmosphere. Paharganj is famous for its budget hotels, backpacker hostels, eclectic cafes, and lively markets. Over the decades, it has become a melting pot of cultures, attracting tourists from around the world. The area’s narrow lanes are lined with shops selling everything from handicrafts to textiles, and its eateries serve a diverse range of cuisines, reflecting Delhi’s cosmopolitan spirit.

Despite its charm, Paharganj faces challenges typical of old urban neighborhoods—overcrowding, traffic snarls, and infrastructure strain. However, ongoing redevelopment efforts promise to bring much-needed improvements while retaining the area’s distinctive character.

Conclusion

The Paharganj side of New Delhi Railway Station is more than just an entry point; it is a microcosm of Delhi itself—historically rich, bustling with life, and constantly evolving. As modernization projects take shape, the station is poised to offer world-class facilities while continuing to serve as a crucial gateway to the capital. For millions of passengers each year, the Paharganj entrance is their first encounter with Delhi—a city where the past and present coexist in a dynamic, ever-changing landscape.