Indian Railways has unveiled a comprehensive plan to manage the surge in passenger traffic during the upcoming Jharkhand Regional Worker Competition Exam (JFWCE-2024) and the Shravani Mela 2026. By deploying special services, adjusting routes, and implementing temporary halts, the Eastern, South Eastern, North Eastern, and East Central Railways aim to ensure seamless travel for examinees and pilgrims alike. Key highlights of these arrangements include:
- 10 special unreserved train services running from July 18 to July 20, 2026, for JFWCE-2024 candidates.
- Daily special services between Barhni and Deoghar operating from July 28 to August 30, 2026.
- 56 single trips scheduled between Ranchi and Bhagalpur from July 26 to September 12, 2026.
- Temporary two-minute halts for 22 pairs of trains at Mahadevshal station to facilitate devotees.
Special Services for JFWCE-2024 Candidates
To support students appearing for the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) exam on July 19, 2026, the railways will operate five pairs of special unreserved trains. Shreya Singh, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of the Ranchi Railway Division, confirmed that these services will cover vital routes, including Ranchi-Dumka, Tatanagar-Hazaribagh Road, Ranchi-Patna, and Ranchi-Garhwa Road. These measures are specifically designed to reduce overcrowding on regular trains and provide timely connectivity for candidates traveling to their exam centers.
Enhanced Connectivity for Shravani Mela 2026
In anticipation of the massive influx of devotees visiting Baba Baidyanath Dham in Deoghar and Baba Mahadevshal Dham, East Central Railway has finalized extensive travel arrangements. Beyond the Ranchi-Bhagalpur and Barhni-Deoghar specials, the network will see increased activity on routes such as Danapur-Sahibganj and Virangana Lakshmibai Jhansi-Asansol.
To further assist pilgrims, the railways have introduced temporary two-minute halts at Mahadevshal Railway Station for 22 pairs of trains from July 30 to August 28, 2026. Additionally, the Howrah-Natesar-Howrah Shravani Mela Special will observe a scheduled stop at Barbigha station. Passengers can expect a diverse range of travel options, as these special trains are configured with a mix of General Second Class, Sleeper, and AC coaches to accommodate varying passenger needs and budgets.