Diwali Chhath Special Trains: Massive Boost for Bihar & Punjab
Indian Railways launches 100+ special train pairs for Diwali and Chhath, boosting connectivity to Bihar and Punjab with enhanced security and facilities.
To manage the massive festive surge, Indian Railways is deploying extensive Diwali Chhath special trains to ensure smooth travel for millions of passengers heading home to their families.
Massive Boost for Bihar Connectivity
Recognizing the heavy demand during the festival season, the railway network has significantly scaled up its operations. Nationally, the authorities are facilitating 15,000 trains to and from Bihar, a substantial increase from the standard 12,000 services provided during normal periods.
To bridge the gap between major urban hubs and the eastern states, over 100 pairs of special trains have been deployed. These services will provide critical links between Bihar and major cities, including:
- Delhi
- Punjab
- Mumbai
- Pune
Firozpur Division Steps Up for Punjab Travelers
The Northern Railway’s Firozpur Division has announced a dedicated deployment to assist travelers moving between Punjab and eastern states like Bihar and West Bengal. A total of 15 pairs of special trains have been scheduled to conduct 98 trips across the region.
The breakdown of these special services is as follows:
- Amritsar: 5 pairs of special trains
- Ludhiana: 6 pairs of special trains
- Firozpur Cantt: 2 pairs of special trains
- Jalandhar City: 1 pair of special trains
- Chheharta: 1 pair of special trains
Enhanced Passenger Facilities and Security
With the expected high volume of travelers, railway authorities have taken several steps to manage crowds and ensure safety at major stations such as Amritsar, Ludhiana, and Jalandhar City. Dedicated waiting areas covering approximately 3,700 square metres have been established to accommodate the rush.
To maintain order and safety, the following measures are in place:
- Increased Security: Deployment of additional Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) personnel.
- Constant Monitoring: 24-hour surveillance through divisional control 'War Rooms' and comprehensive CCTV coverage.
- Streamlined Boarding: Increased ticket counters and a push for passengers to use the Mobile UTS app to avoid long queues.
In an effort to prioritize passenger movement during peak rush days, operational protocols have been adjusted, including the temporary suspension of parcel transactions at major transit points like Ludhiana.
Important Travel Advisory for Passengers
Railway officials have issued a formal advisory to ensure a safe and efficient journey for all commuters during this busy period:
Passengers are urged to maintain cleanliness at stations and on trains, strictly avoid carrying any inflammable materials, and try to limit bulky luggage to ensure the comfort and safety of fellow travelers.