With the festive season in full swing, Indian Railways has announced an ambitious plan to operate 12,000 special festival trains this year. The move comes in anticipation of record passenger traffic during Diwali and Chhath Puja, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said in New Delhi on Tuesday.
Sharp Increase From Last Year
In 2023, Indian Railways ran 7,724 special trains to 12,000 Special Trains To Run For Diwali, Chhath Puja the festival rush. This year’s target of 12,000 Special Trains To Run For Diwali, Chhath Puja reflects a sharp rise in demand and demonstrates the Railways’ increased capacity, supported by steady track expansion, coach production, and locomotive supply.
Vande Sleeper Rollout Soon
A highlight for passengers this festive season will be the launch of the Vande Sleeper trains. Expanding the popular Vande Bharat brand, these sleeper variants are designed for overnight journeys, promising faster, more comfortable, and safer long-distance travel. Officials noted that the Vande Sleeper will gradually replace older conventional trains on key routes.
New Rail Line to Cut Travel Time
The government has also sanctioned a new Rajpura-Mohali railway line in Punjab. Once operational, this line will shorten travel distance by 66 km, providing faster connectivity and easing congestion on existing routes. This aligns with the Railways’ broader modernization agenda to reduce travel time and improve passenger convenience.
Strengthening India’s Rail Backbone
Railways Minister Vaishnaw emphasized that the sector has been achieving over 4,000 km of track construction annually, a feat that underpins the ability to handle surging passenger demand. Combined with modern trains, new lines, and more coaches, the Railways is positioning itself as a reliable and future-ready transport system.
Looking Ahead
As millions prepare to travel home during Diwali and Chhath Puja, Indian Railways’ expanded services aim to ensure smoother, safer, and more comfortable journeys. With the upcoming Vande Sleeper trains and new routes like Rajpura-Mohali, the festive season may mark the beginning of a new era in Indian passenger rail travel.
