Sabour-Katihar Puja Special Trains to Ease Festival Rush
To tackle the massive influx of passengers during the upcoming festive season, Indian Railways has announced a new Puja Special train service between Sabour and Katihar. This strategic move by the Malda Railway Division aims to provide much-needed relief to commuters traveling during Durga Puja, Diwali, and Chhath Puja.
Relief Amidst Bridge Closures
The introduction of these special services comes at a critical time. With the ongoing closure of the Vikramshila Setu, local road connectivity is heavily impacted, leading to increased pressure on rail networks. Following requests from local representatives, the Malda Division has stepped in to ensure smoother travel for thousands of devotees and travelers during the peak festival period.
Detailed Train Schedule and Timings
The railway has scheduled a total of 24 trips in each direction to accommodate the surge. The services will operate on different days of the week to ensure maximum coverage.
Katihar to Sabour Special (Train No. 05782)
- Service Period: October 8, 2026, to November 30, 2026
- Operating Days: Thursdays, Sundays, and Mondays
- Departure (Katihar): 4:50 PM
- Arrival (Sabour): 11:00 PM
Sabour to Katihar Special (Train No. 05781)
- Service Period: October 9, 2026, to December 1, 2026
- Operating Days: Fridays, Mondays, and Tuesdays
- Departure (Sabour): 4:50 AM
- Arrival (Katihar): 10:55 AM
Coaches and Intermediate Stops
To cater to various passenger preferences, the special trains will feature a mix of General, Sleeper, and AC coaches. This ensures that both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking comfort have viable options during the holiday rush.
The trains will make scheduled stops at several key locations, including:
- Bhagalpur
- Sultanganj
- Munger
- Nathnagar
- Bariarpur
Passengers are advised to keep an eye on official notifications, as booking for these services is expected to commence shortly following the recent official updates issued by the railway authorities.