Chhath Puja Special: 102 Train Pairs for Bihar Rush
Indian Railways announces 102 pairs of special trains to manage the Chhath Puja festive rush in Bihar, connecting major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
Indian Railways is gearing up to manage the massive festive surge by deploying 102 pairs of Chhath Puja special trains. This move is designed to accommodate the significant increase in passenger traffic as devotees and travelers head to Bihar for the upcoming celebrations.
Connecting Bihar to Major Indian Hubs
According to officials from the East Central Railway (ECR), including CPRO Saraswati Chandra, these special services are strategically planned to facilitate travel for those returning to the state. The expanded rail network will connect Bihar to several major metropolitan areas and regions, including:
- Delhi
- Mumbai
- Punjab
- Ahmedabad
- Various cities across South India
The special operations are scheduled to manage the intense festive demand starting from November 6, 2026, through November 14, 2026, with certain services expected to continue into late November.
Massive Increase in Train Operations
To ensure smooth travel during this period, the scale of railway operations has been significantly ramped up. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw noted that Indian Railways is operating approximately 15,000 trains to and from Bihar during this festive window, marking a substantial increase from the standard 12,000 services typically provided.
Key Stations and Booking Information
The special trains will provide much-needed relief to several major stations across the region. Passengers traveling through the following hubs can expect enhanced connectivity:
- Patna and Patliputra
- Danapur
- Bhagalpur
- Muzaffarpur
- Gaya
- Darbhanga
- Raxaul
- Madhubani
- Saharsa
- Purnia Court
While bookings have been heavy due to the high demand, officials have indicated that some vacant seats remain available on certain festival special trains. Passengers are strongly encouraged to verify real-time train numbers, specific departure schedules, and seat availability exclusively through the official IRCTC website or authorized booking platforms, as the operational status and frequency of these trains may vary by route.