Chhath Puja Special Trains from Delhi and Kolkata Announced
Indian Railways announces special trains from Delhi and Kolkata for Chhath Puja to manage festive crowds. Check schedules and routes here.
To manage the massive influx of passengers during the upcoming Diwali and Chhath Puja festivals, Indian Railways has announced the operation of several additional special trains. These services are designed to connect major hubs, including Delhi and Kolkata, to various destinations across Bihar, ensuring smoother travel for commuters during the festive season.
Massive Festive Surge Managed by Indian Railways
In a large-scale effort to accommodate the high volume of travelers, the Indian Railways has notified over 8,454 special train trips nationwide. These services aim to facilitate movement between key regions, including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and the Northeast.
The Northern Railway is a major part of this initiative, having released a comprehensive schedule for 45 pairs of special trains to handle the seasonal demand in the northern corridors.
Key Routes and Schedules for Passengers
For those traveling from the Delhi region, several specific routes have been identified to assist with the festive rush:
- Anand Vihar Terminal to Chhapra (Train 04058/04057): This service is scheduled to make five trips between November 3 and November 17, 2026, operating on Tuesdays and Fridays.
- Shakurbasti Services: Special trains will also operate from Shakurbasti to Darbhanga, Patna, and Jhanjharpur between November 5 and November 15.
Understanding the Fare Structure
Passengers should note that these special services, often identified as '0-series' trains, come with specific fare adjustments. The following surcharges typically apply to these trips:
- Approximately 10 percent surcharge on second-class fares.
- Up to 30 percent surcharge on Sleeper and AC base fares.
Important Booking and Travel Advice
To ensure a seamless journey, railway officials have issued the following guidelines for travelers:
- Verify Status: Passengers are urged to check the latest travel status and schedules through the official Indian Railways website, the National Train Enquiry System (NTES), or the railway helpline.
- Book Promptly: To secure availability, it is highly recommended to use the IRCTC portal as soon as bookings for these special services open.
- Reservation Charts: Travelers should be aware that final reservation charts are generally prepared 30 to 45 minutes prior to the train's departure.