Central Railway’s Bhusawal division has suspended the sale of platform tickets at Nashik Road railway station from November 1 to 15 to control overcrowding expected during the Diwali and Chhath festival travel period.
The temporary measure applies to relatives and other non-travelling visitors who would ordinarily purchase platform tickets to enter the station. Railway authorities said the restriction was introduced because the festive rush is expected to increase passenger volumes and crowding on platforms.
A senior commercial department officer said relatives accompanying passengers boarding or getting off trains add significantly to the pressure within the station premises. The suspension is intended to reduce non-essential footfall, improve passenger movement and support safer boarding and deboarding during the busy period.
“Since there is likely to be overcrowding on platforms, these measures have been taken,” the officer said, adding that the objective was to control crowding, ensure passenger safety and facilitate the smooth movement of passengers inside the station.
The restriction is not absolute. Relatives accompanying senior citizens and passengers requiring medical assistance will continue to receive platform tickets. The railway administration said these exemptions would be provided as usual for people who need support while entering or leaving the station.
Nashik Road is an important rail access point for Nashik and adjoining areas, particularly during the festive season when large numbers of passengers travel to meet families or return to their home towns. The platform-ticket restriction is therefore focused on regulating accompanying visitors rather than limiting the movement of ticketed passengers.
Railway officials have advised passengers to reach the station well in advance and check their coach positions before the train arrives. Passengers have also been asked to seek assistance from the Railway Protection Force wherever required during boarding or deboarding.
The commercial department officer said railway staff and security personnel would assist passengers during the period. The suspension will remain in force at Nashik Road railway station through November 15, after which the railway administration’s regular platform-ticket arrangements are expected to resume unless further instructions are issued.
