The Holi festival is just around the corner, and Indian Railways is gearing up for the massive passenger rush expected at stations and on trains. To ensure smooth and safe travel, Northern Railway has finalized a comprehensive crowd management and operational plan, particularly for New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS). This year, passengers traveling during the festive period, especially to destinations in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, will experience a multi-tiered entry system designed to prevent overcrowding and ensure orderly movement.
🗞️: Western Railway Traffic Block: Diva-Vasai Road Trains Cancelled and Rescheduled till February 22।
What’s New at Platform 16 for Holi?
Platform 16, located on the Ajmeri Gate side of New Delhi Railway Station, has been designated as the main point for high-occupancy and Holi Special trains. To manage the large number of passengers, access to Platform 16 is now completely separate from Platforms 1-15. If your train departs from Platform 16, you will use a dedicated ground-level entry path. Reserved ticket holders should enter through Gate 10, while unreserved passengers will be directed via Gate 12. The railway has also installed special zig-zag or serpentine queue dividers to ensure passengers move in an orderly line, significantly reducing the risk of pushing and shoving, especially when trains arrive.
How Will Ticketing and Security Work?
To streamline the boarding process and manage crowds, special ‘Passenger Holding Areas’ have been set up outside the station on the Ajmeri Gate side. These areas include temporary ticket booking counters and Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs). All passengers must first obtain their tickets and clear security checks, which include metal detectors, within these holding zones before being allowed to proceed towards the platforms. During peak rush hours, only passengers with valid or confirmed tickets are permitted inside the station. Furthermore, platform ticket sales will be suspended, typically between 4:00 PM and 11:00 PM, to reduce the number of non-traveling individuals, with exceptions only for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
Key Advice for Holi Travelers and Special Trains
Indian Railways plans to operate a record 1,410 to 1,500 Holi special trips in 2026, marking a 23% increase from last year. The heavy rush is expected to begin on February 28 and continue through March 8, 2026. Passengers are strongly advised to reach the station at least 60-90 minutes early due to the new tiered security and longer zig-zag walking paths. It is important to confirm your platform number before arriving. If your train is departing from Platform 16, head directly to the Ajmeri Gate (East side) entry instead of the Paharganj side to avoid unnecessary cross-station travel. To assist passengers, over 120 additional RPF personnel and Special Duty Officers have been deployed at New Delhi Railway Station alone, with Mini Control Rooms monitoring live CCTV feeds 24/7 at major stations.