In preparation for the peak festive season travel rush, Indian Railways will run approximately 8,000 additional special trains to cater to increased passenger demand for Diwali and Chhath, the Ministry of Railways confirmed on Monday.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw visited the Railway Board’s War Room to review operations during the festive period. He commended staff for their round-the-clock efforts and extended Diwali greetings to railway personnel.
This year, Indian Railways plans to operate a total of 12,011 special trains, a significant rise from the 7,724 trains operated during the same period in 2024.
The aim is to ensure smooth, safe, and comfortable journeys across the country, supplementing regular services with a robust network of festive specials.
Indian Railways has successfully operated 3,960 special trains between 1st and 19th October. These services have facilitated travel for more than one crore passengers so far, according to the ministry’s statement.
All railway zones are contributing to the effort, with Northern Railway (1,919), Central Railway (1,998), and Western Railway (1,501) leading the deployment of special trains. Other zones, such as East Central and North Western Railways, have each added over 1,200 trains to manage regional demand.
Special arrangements have also been made at major stations to improve passenger experience. These include additional ticket counters, dedicated holding areas, potable water, clean washrooms, and clear train timing displays.
In the New Delhi zone, including New Delhi, Delhi, Anand Vihar, Hazrat Nizamuddin, and Shakur Basti stations, 15.17 lakh passengers travelled between 16th and 19th October, up from 13.66 lakh during the same period last year.
Minister Vaishnaw also visited New Delhi and Anand Vihar stations to interact with passengers and inspect festive travel arrangements on the ground.
Also Read: Decade Of Diwali At The Frontlines: PM Modi Celebrates With Armed Forces Aboard INS Vikrant
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