Delhi Platform Ticket Ban for Diwali & Chhath
Indian Railways to implement a Delhi platform ticket ban at six major stations from Nov 3 to Nov 14, 2026, to manage festive crowds.
In an effort to manage heavy passenger traffic, Indian Railways has announced a Delhi platform ticket ban at six major stations in the Delhi-NCR region for the upcoming festive season. This measure is intended to ensure passenger safety and reduce overcrowding during the Diwali and Chhath Puja celebrations.
The suspension of platform ticket sales will be in effect from November 3, 2026, to November 14, 2026. The decision targets high-traffic hubs to prevent congestion on platforms during the peak holiday period.
Affected Stations in Delhi-NCR
The following six stations will implement the restriction:
- New Delhi Railway Station
- Delhi Junction (Old Delhi)
- Hazrat Nizamuddin
- Ghaziabad
- Anand Vihar Terminal
- Anand Vihar Halt
Himanshu Shekhar Upadhyay, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) for Northern Railway, stated that the decision was taken specifically to reduce overcrowding on station platforms.
Exemptions for Vulnerable Passengers
While the general sale of platform tickets is suspended, the railways have granted specific exemptions to ensure assistance is available for those who need it most. Access will be permitted for:
- Assistants accompanying elderly passengers
- Caregivers for ill or disabled travelers
- Assistants for illiterate passengers
- Caregivers for female travelers requiring assistance
Strict Restrictions on Parcel Services
To further streamline station operations, Indian Railways has imposed significant restrictions on departmental parcel services during the festive window.
New Delhi, Anand Vihar Terminal, and Delhi Junction
- Departmental parcel booking: Suspended from November 3 to November 15, 2026.
- Loading and unloading: All activities are prohibited from November 5 to November 15, 2026.
Hazrat Nizamuddin
- Parcel booking and loading-unloading: Both services will be restricted from November 5 to November 8, 2026.
Please note: While commercial parcel services are restricted, passengers are still permitted to carry their personal luggage into train coaches. Additionally, the booking of registered newspapers and magazines will remain operational.