Definition:
Falaknuma Express is a named passenger train service operated by Indian Railways, connecting the cities of Hyderabad and Howrah (Kolkata).
Overview:
The Falaknuma Express is a long-distance express train that operates between Secunderabad Junction (SC) in Telangana and Howrah Junction (HWH) in West Bengal. The train covers a distance of approximately 1,545 kilometers, traversing through the states of Telangana, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal. It is part of Indian Railways' network of express trains and operates on a weekly schedule. As a Mail/Express service, it offers various classes of travel, including Sleeper Class, Second AC, Third AC, and sometimes Executive Chair Car, depending on the rake configuration.
Etymology/Origin:
The name "Falaknuma" derives from the historic Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad, built by Nawab Vikar-ul-Umra, a Prime Minister of Hyderabad State in the late 19th century. The palace’s name translates to "Mirror of the Sky" in Urdu, with "Falak" meaning "sky" and "Numa" meaning "like" or "mirror of" in Persian/Urdu. The train is named in honor of this architectural landmark, reflecting regional cultural heritage.
Characteristics:
- Train Numbers: 12703 (Howrah to Secunderabad) and 12704 (Secunderabad to Howrah)
- Route: Secunderabad Junction ↔ Howrah Junction
- Average Journey Time: Approximately 28–30 hours, depending on direction and halts
- Major Stops Include: Kazipet, Nagpur, Bilaspur, Sambalpur, Kharagpur
- Operated by: South Central Railway zone of Indian Railways
- Locomotive: Typically hauled by electric locomotives (e.g., WAP-7), given the fully electrified route
Related Topics:
- Indian Railways
- Secunderabad Junction
- Howrah Junction
- Falaknuma Palace
- South Central Railway zone
- Express trains in India
- Hyderabad–Kolkata rail connectivity