18,000 Diwali Chhath Puja Special Trains for Festive Rush
Indian Railways to run 18,000 Diwali Chhath Puja special trains to manage the festive rush between Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar.
To accommodate the massive surge in passenger traffic during the upcoming festive season, Indian Railways has announced the operation of approximately 18,000 Diwali Chhath Puja special trains. These additional services are specifically designed to manage the high travel demand connecting major hubs, particularly the Delhi-NCR region, with various destinations across Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Connecting Delhi-NCR to Major Hubs in UP and Bihar
The expanded service network aims to facilitate smooth travel for millions of passengers heading home for the holidays. The special trains will connect the capital region to several key destinations, including:
- Patna
- Gaya
- Muzaffarpur
- Darbhanga
- Gorakhpur
- Chhapra
- Ballia
While the focus is on increasing capacity, some operational adjustments have been made. The Western Railway zone has confirmed the cancellation of four trains, and several other special services have seen modifications to their timings to ensure efficient network operations throughout November.
Crowd Management and Station Upgrades
To handle the significant influx of travelers, railway authorities have implemented strict crowd control measures at 15 major stations. This includes high-footfall areas in Bihar as well as northern stations like Ludhiana, Ambala, Chandigarh, and Saharanpur. To ensure passenger comfort during the wait, authorities are setting up:
- Temporary passenger holding areas.
- Protective tents for shelter.
- Additional seating arrangements.
Unreserved Travel and AI-Enabled Monitoring
In an effort to alleviate pressure on the reservation system, multiple railway zones have introduced fully unreserved special trains. This allows passengers to purchase tickets directly at station counters, providing a vital option for last-minute travelers.
Furthermore, the railway administration is utilizing high-tech solutions to maintain order. A dedicated 'war room' has been established, and AI-enabled surveillance cameras are being used to monitor crowd levels in real-time across major stations.
Important Advice for Passengers
To ensure a hassle-free journey, travelers are advised to follow these guidelines:
- Verify train numbers and exact departure/arrival timings through the official IRCTC website or authorized platforms.
- Always check the live status of your train before leaving for the station.
- Arrive at the station well in advance to avoid platform overcrowding.
- Follow all instructions and guidance provided by railway staff on the ground.