There has been strong opposition, disappointment and criticism from several groups of people regarding the removal of the word ‘Chennai’ following the change of name of the Chennai Central Railway Station.
The state government of Tamil Nadu took a decision to change the name of the Chennai Central Railway Station. The new name: ‘Puratchi Thalaivar Doctor MGR Central Railway Station’
It may be noted that the most important word – ‘Chennai’ – has been left out. The name change has been effective from 5th April.
There is an overwhelming observation that with this problematic decision by the state government, the people arriving in Tamil Nadu for the 1st time would be greatly confused.
The historians and the traditionalists observe in this regard: ‘A city is far more important than an individual! Even if the concerned personality is outstanding in many respects, it is not right to change the name of a historic railway station.
With this decision, the traditional repute of 376 years’ old railway station is tarnished. The central station was built in the year 1873 to reduce the traffic at the Royapuram Railway Station.
It may be recalled the name of the Bangalore Railway Station was also changed to `Kranthiveera Sunsolli Rabana Railway Station’ However, it is now called ‘KSR Bengaluru’ to restore the familiar name! So, the name of historical city/place cannot be removed by the times.
It is also worth mentioning here that the train tickets are printed ‘MGR Chennai CTR’!