Delhi NCR Railways Suspend Platform Tickets From October 15 To 27
New Delhi: As the festive season ushers in record passenger movement, the Indian Railways has temporarily suspended the sale of platform tickets at major Delhi-NCR stations from October 15 to October 27, 2025, in a proactive effort to manage crowd congestion and ensure safety during Diwali and Chhath Puja.
Senior railway officials confirmed that the restriction applies to New Delhi, Delhi Junction, Hazrat Nizamuddin, Anand Vihar Terminal, and Ghaziabad Junction, among others. The decision, they said, was taken to prevent overcrowding, reduce risk of accidents, and streamline the flow of travellers during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. The sale of platform tickets will resume once the festive rush subsides after October 27.According to railway authorities, passenger traffic during the festival season has surged nearly twice compared to 2024, driven by increased demand on routes connecting Delhi to Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and eastern India. To accommodate this rush, the Northern Railway Zone has deployed additional special trains, including two new Vande Bharat services, and doubled the number of special trips on high-demand corridors.For instance, the Delhi–Patna route will operate 596 special trips this year, up from 280 last year, while other routes to Gaya, Darbhanga, Bhagalpur, and Samastipur will also see enhanced frequency. Officials said the expansion aims to ensure smoother travel experiences and avoid overcrowding on existing trains.
“The temporary suspension of platform tickets is a standard safety protocol during heavy rush periods,” said a senior railway operations official. “Our priority is to maintain passenger convenience, security, and operational efficiency while ensuring that station premises remain manageable for both travellers and staff.”The suspension has also been accompanied by enhanced crowd management measures, including the deployment of additional Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel, public awareness announcements, and improved queuing systems at ticket counters and entry gates. Passengers have been urged to travel only with valid tickets and arrive early to avoid last-minute delays.
The decision, though temporary, reflects Indian Railways’ increasing emphasis on sustainable mobility management prioritising safety, discipline, and resource optimisation during high-demand travel cycles. The focus is on providing safe, equitable, and efficient travel for millions while minimising the strain on infrastructure.As Delhi’s rail hubs brace for the festive surge, the move underscores the growing challenge of urban transport management during peak travel seasons in India’s mega-cities. By integrating modern scheduling, additional services, and proactive crowd control, the railways are aiming for a safer, smoother, and more sustainable festive travel experience this year.
