New Delhi: Indian Railways has announced that 1,500 special trains will operate over the next five days to manage the heavy passenger rush during the Chhath Puja and Diwali festive season. The initiative aims to ensure safe, smooth, and comfortable travel for millions returning home to celebrate with their families.
According to a release from the Ministry of Railways, an average of 300 additional train trips will be run each day across key routes in the country. This comes alongside other efforts to manage the seasonal surge, including crowd-control measures, extra staff deployment, and improved passenger facilities at major stations.
The Railways said that during the 61-day festive period from October 1 to November 30, more than 12,000 special trains are being operated nationwide. So far, 11,865 special trips — covering 916 trains — have been announced, including 9,338 reserved and 2,203 unreserved services.
In the last 21 days alone, 4,493 special train trips have been run, averaging 213 per day. These services helped passengers reach their hometowns safely for Diwali and will continue to operate through the Chhath festival period.
This year’s festive operations mark a substantial increase from 2024, when 7,724 Puja and Diwali specials were operated. The expansion reflects Indian Railways’ ongoing commitment to enhancing connectivity and ensuring affordable travel options for the public.
“Indian Railways continues to play a vital role in connecting people across the nation, particularly during the festive season,” the ministry said, adding that safety and passenger convenience remain top priorities.
The Railways has intensified cleaning drives, deployed additional security personnel, and activated control rooms to monitor train operations in real time. At several busy stations, helpdesks and passenger assistance counters have been set up to guide travellers.
Passengers have welcomed these arrangements, particularly the special services on high-demand routes linking Delhi, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and West Bengal, which traditionally witness massive festive migration.
With enhanced schedules, improved coordination, and focus on passenger comfort, Indian Railways continues to reinforce its role as the country’s most reliable mode of transport during India’s busiest travel season.
