Indian Railways has announced an extensive train operation plan to manage the surge in passenger demand during Durga Puja, Diwali and Chhath Puja in 2026. Between October 1 and November 30, the national transporter plans to operate approximately 3.4 lakh regular train trips and has notified 8,454 special train trips to help passengers reach their hometowns during the festive period.
The move aims to reduce overcrowding, improve travel availability and provide additional options on routes experiencing heavy demand.
More Regular and Special Train Services
Indian Railways is planning around 3.4 lakh regular train trips during the two-month festive period, compared with approximately 3.3 lakh during the corresponding period last year. This represents an increase of more than 16,000 regular trips.
In addition to regular services, 8,454 special train trips had been notified by October 13. The railway authorities may announce further services depending on passenger demand and operational requirements.
The expanded schedule is particularly important during the festive season, when millions of people travel to celebrate with their families. Popular routes connecting major cities with Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal typically experience significant pressure on available seats.
Bihar and Uttar Pradesh Get the Largest Share
Bihar and Uttar Pradesh are expected to receive a substantial share of the additional services because of high passenger demand during Diwali and Chhath Puja.
According to the reported figures, Bihar has been allocated 2,057 special train trips, while Uttar Pradesh will receive 1,056. West Bengal is also receiving additional services to manage the Durga Puja rush.
Railways has planned 49 special trains for West Bengal during the Durga Puja period. These services are intended to provide additional travel options for passengers heading to and from major destinations across the state.
The regional distribution reflects the scale of seasonal migration and the large number of people travelling from industrial and commercial centres to their home states.
Additional Coaches to Increase Capacity
Apart from introducing special services, Indian Railways has planned to add 412 coaches to existing trains. Increasing the number of coaches can improve passenger capacity without requiring an entirely new train service.
This approach is particularly useful on routes where regular trains are already operating but demand rises sharply during the festive period.
Passengers should nevertheless check seat availability, train schedules and reservation status before making travel plans, as additional services do not guarantee confirmed tickets on every route.
What Passengers Should Know
Travellers planning festive journeys should book tickets as early as possible and check official railway announcements for special train numbers, stoppages and operating dates. Passengers should also verify whether a particular service runs on their intended travel date.
The expanded arrangements are designed to make festive travel more manageable, although crowding may continue at major stations and on high-demand routes.
Summary
Indian Railways plans to operate approximately 3.4 lakh regular train trips between October and November 2026 and has notified 8,454 special train trips for Durga Puja, Diwali and Chhath Puja. Bihar will receive 2,057 special trips and Uttar Pradesh 1,056, while 49 special trains are planned for West Bengal. An additional 412 coaches will also help increase passenger capacity.
