Indian Railways has unveiled a comprehensive plan to streamline travel for the upcoming Shravani Mela 2026 and various competitive examinations. To accommodate the massive influx of pilgrims and students, authorities are launching new special train services, adjusting coach compositions, and introducing temporary station halts to ensure smoother operations across Eastern, South Eastern, and East Central Railway zones.
- Special Ranchi-Bhagalpur services running from July 26 to September 12, 2026.
- Dedicated exam specials (08619/08620) between Ranchi and Dumka for JFWCE 2024.
- Temporary halt for the South Bihar Express at Mahadeosal station.
- Increased connectivity with 26 additional pairs of special trains during the Mela period.
Shravani Mela Special Trains
To manage the heavy pilgrim traffic for the world-renowned Shravani Mela, Eastern and South Eastern Railways will operate two pairs of special trains between Ranchi and Bhagalpur. These services will be operational from July 26 to September 12, 2026. The services are structured to provide comfort, with AC 3-tier and Sleeper class options available. Train 08690/08689 will consist of one Third AC, seven Sleeper, and six General coaches, while train 08646/08645 will feature one Third AC, thirteen Sleeper, and four General coaches.
Examination Special Services
For students appearing for the JFWCE 2024 examination, Indian Railways has scheduled a pair of unreserved Mail/Express trains (08619/08620) running between Ranchi and Dumka on July 19 and 20, 2026. Train 08619 will depart Ranchi at 8:20 PM on July 19, reaching Dumka at 5:30 AM the next morning. The return Train 08620 will depart Dumka at 7:45 AM on July 20, arriving in Ranchi at 5:45 PM. These trains will be composed of ten coaches, specifically eight general second-class coaches and two SLRD coaches.
Operational Updates and Infrastructure
As part of the festive arrangements, the South Bihar Express will observe a temporary halt at Mahadeosal station from July 30 to August 28, 2026. Sangrah Maurya, the Asansol Rail Division Manager, confirmed that following rigorous inspections at key stations including Jasidih, Deoghar, and Baidyanathdham, a total of 26 pairs of special trains have been sanctioned. This includes nine pairs of long-distance express trains, ensuring that the increased passenger demand during the Mela season is met with adequate capacity and improved connectivity.