In a significant move for local identity, a key railway station in Navi Mumbai has officially received a new name. The Railway Ministry, acting on a request from the Maharashtra state government, has renamed the Seawoods-Darave station to Seawoods-Darave-Karave.
Details Behind the Renaming Decision
The announcement was made by officials on Monday, bringing a long-standing demand to fruition. The original name, Seawoods-Darave, represented a prominent residential complex (Seawoods) and one of the adjoining villages (Darave). The inclusion of 'Karave' now acknowledges the second historic village in the immediate vicinity, offering a more complete geographical and historical representation of the area.
Operational Changes and New Station Code
This administrative change carries a practical update for the railway system. A spokesperson for Central Railway confirmed that with the renaming, the station's unique alphanumeric code has also been altered. The code has been officially changed from SWDV to SWDK to reflect the new name. This code is crucial for ticketing, scheduling, and internal railway operations.
Significance and Local Impact
The renaming is seen as an important step in recognizing the cultural and historical heritage of the region. By incorporating 'Karave,' the authorities have addressed the identity of the local communities that have existed there long before urban development. Such changes often stem from persistent requests by local bodies and public representatives to the state government, which then forwards the proposal to the central railway authorities for approval.
For daily commuters and residents of Navi Mumbai, this change formalizes the area's identity in the official infrastructure of the city. It ensures that the station's name mirrors the local topography and history more accurately, moving beyond a single residential landmark to encompass the wider community.
