18,000 Special Trains for Festive Rush; Delhi Ticket Curbs
Indian Railways to run 18,000 special trains for Diwali and Chhath Puja. Strict platform ticket rules implemented at Delhi-NCR stations.
Indian Railways is gearing up for a massive festive season by deploying 18,000 special trains to manage the heavy influx of passengers. This significant increase, announced by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, aims to accommodate travelers during the upcoming Diwali, Bhai Dooj, and Chhath Puja celebrations.
Compared to the 12,000 special trains operated during the same period last year, this year's deployment represents a major effort to ease the festive travel burden on the national network.
Strict Crowd Management in Delhi-NCR
To maintain order and manage the surge in passenger traffic, Northern Railway has introduced stringent crowd management protocols across the Delhi-NCR region. A key measure involves the suspension of platform ticket sales at several major stations to prevent overcrowding.
The suspension of platform ticket sales will be effective from November 3 to November 14, 2026, at the following locations:
- New Delhi
- Delhi Junction
- Hazrat Nizamuddin
- Ghaziabad
- Anand Vihar Terminal
- Anand Vihar Halt
Exceptions to the Rule
While the curbs are strict, authorities have provided certain exceptions to ensure passenger comfort. Platform tickets may still be issued for individuals assisting:
- Elderly passengers
- Sick or unwell travelers
- Differently-abled passengers
- Illiterate passengers
- Women requiring assistance
Parcel Booking and Loading Restrictions
In addition to passenger crowd control, temporary restrictions have been placed on parcel-related activities to streamline station operations. From November 3 to November 15, 2026, restrictions on parcel bookings and loading/unloading activities will be implemented at:
- New Delhi
- Delhi Junction
- Anand Vihar Terminal
- Hazrat Nizamuddin
Crackdown on Fake News and Misinformation
As the festive rush intensifies, railway authorities are also taking legal steps to combat the spread of misinformation. On November 4, 2026, Northern Railway officials filed FIRs against two Instagram handlers for circulating misleading videos.
These handlers were found using old or unrelated footage to falsely depict current railway conditions, an act that officials say incites unnecessary panic and confusion among the public.
To ensure a safe and orderly transit for all passengers, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) continues to maintain enhanced monitoring and a heightened presence at all major terminals throughout the festive period.