Purvanchal Express Shift: 30 Trains to Move from New Delhi to Anand Vihar Terminal
Passengers traveling from the Purvanchal region to the national capital are facing a major change in their travel arrangements. In a strategic move to manage heavy passenger traffic during the massive redevelopment of the New Delhi Railway Station, Indian Railways is planning to relocate approximately 30 trains to alternative terminals over the next four years.
Why the Shift? The NDLS Redevelopment Plan
The decision comes as a necessity due to ongoing construction work at the New Delhi station, specifically targeting the redevelopment of platform number one. To ensure that passenger movement remains manageable during this period of intense construction, the Delhi Division has submitted a detailed proposal to the Northern Railway headquarters to divert several services.
Key Trains Relocating to Anand Vihar
While the plan involves a wide range of services, many trains primarily serving the Purvanchal region will be moved to the Anand Vihar Terminal. Among the specific services proposed for this relocation are:
- Prayagraj-New Delhi Hamsafar Express (12275/12276)
- Kathgodam Shatabdi Express (12039/12040)
Upgrading Anand Vihar Terminal Infrastructure
To prepare for the increased influx of passengers, the Railway Board has approved the creation of a permanent holding area at Anand Vihar Terminal. This facility is being designed to mirror the passenger management systems used at New Delhi station.
The construction, being handled by DR Infracon, is set to be completed in two distinct phases:
- Phase One: Will establish holding space for roughly 4,000 passengers.
- Final Phase: Will expand the total capacity to accommodate between 7,000 and 8,000 passengers.
Railway officials are aiming to have this new facility fully operational before the upcoming Chhath and Diwali festive seasons to ensure better crowd management during the peak travel period.