With millions of people set to travel home for festivals like Durga Puja, Diwali, and Chhath Puja, Indian Railways has announced a massive operation to manage the rush. According to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, 6,000 special trains will be deployed, which are expected to serve around 10 million passengers across various regions.
Special Trains to Ease the Festival Rush
The upcoming festive season, including major celebrations like Durga Puja, Diwali, and Chhath Puja, typically sees a surge in travel demand. To manage the increased passenger traffic, Indian Railways will run 6,000 special trains. Additional general coaches will also be added to 108 trains, ensuring more seating capacity for travelers. Over 12,500 coaches have been sanctioned to accommodate the increased demand.
In comparison, last year saw the operation of 4,429 special trains, primarily catering to routes in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. This year, the addition of more trains is expected to provide relief to passengers and make travel easier during the festive rush.
Vande Bharat Special Trains for Bihar Routes
In a bid to further enhance travel convenience, Indian Railways will introduce a 20-coach Vande Bharat special train. This train will operate on routes connecting Delhi to key cities in Bihar, including Patna, Darbhanga, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Bhagalpur, and Gorakhpur. Known for their speed and comfort, Vande Bharat trains are expected to provide a superior travel experience during this busy time.
Increased Coaches for Key Routes
Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also announced that the number of general coaches would be increased on several trains. This move is aimed at ensuring passengers traveling for Chhath Puja and Diwali have more comfortable and convenient options, especially for routes that experience the highest demand during these festivals.
By deploying special trains and enhancing services, Indian Railways is committed to ensuring smooth travel during one of the busiest times of the year.
