Festive Rush: Railways Limits Platform Ticket Sales at Key Stations
Indian Railways restricts platform ticket sales at major stations like CSMT and New Delhi to manage Diwali and Chhath Puja crowds.
To manage the massive influx of passengers during the upcoming Diwali and Chhath Puja festivals, Indian Railways has implemented temporary restrictions on the sale of platform tickets at several major stations across the country. This strategic move is designed to ensure passenger safety and maintain orderly movement during the heavy festive rush.
The restriction applies to all methods of procuring platform tickets, including physical ticket counters, mobile applications, and Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs).
Major Stations Under Restriction
The restrictions vary by region and specific dates. Below are the key details for the affected zones:
Mumbai Region
- Central Railway: Sales will be suspended at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Dadar, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT), Thane, and Kalyan from November 5, 2026, to November 15, 2026.
- Western Railway: Similar restrictions are in place until November 15, 2026, covering Bandra Terminus, Vapi, Valsad, Udhna, Surat, and Bhestan.
Delhi-NCR Region
Northern Railway has imposed restrictions from November 3, 2026, to November 14, 2026. The affected stations include:
- New Delhi
- Delhi Junction
- Hazrat Nizamuddin
- Anand Vihar Terminal
- Anand Vihar Halt
- Ghaziabad
Who Can Access the Platforms?
Under these new guidelines, only passengers holding confirmed travel tickets are permitted to enter the platforms. This measure is intended to prevent overcrowding and ensure that those actually traveling can move through the stations without hindrance.
Exemptions for Assistance
The Railway Board has recognized the need for support for specific groups. Exemptions have been provided for individuals who are accompanying or assisting:
- Senior citizens
- Ailing or differently-abled passengers
- Children
- Female passengers requiring assistance
Railway officials have urged the general public to cooperate with station staff and refrain from making unnecessary visits to the stations during this period of high passenger volume to ensure smooth operations.