Indian Railways Unveils Festival Special Trains for 2026 Rush

Indian Railways has announced a massive expansion of its service network to tackle the heavy passenger surge expected during the 2026 festive season. Spanning from October 1 to November 30, 2026, these special train services are designed to accommodate travelers celebrating Durga Puja, Diwali, and Chhath Puja.

Dr. Shivam Sharma, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of North Central Railway, confirmed the initiative. He noted that while the current plan is comprehensive, service frequencies may be adjusted in real-time based on passenger demand. The railway administration is also prioritizing station cleanliness and efficient crowd management to ensure a smooth travel experience for all commuters.

Major Puja Special Services

One of the highlights of this festive schedule is the Banaras–Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) Puja Special. The revised schedule for these services is as follows:

• Train 05167: Departs Banaras every Saturday from October 17 to November 28 at