Central Railway has announced six additional special train services between Mumbai’s Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) and Chhapra in Bihar. The initiative, scheduled between 9 and 13 November 2025, aims to ease passenger congestion and improve long-distance connectivity between Maharashtra and the northern and eastern states during the Diwali rush.
According to railway officials, these services—numbered 05093 to 05098—will operate on alternate days within the specified period. Each train will traverse key junctions including Kalyan, Nashik Road, Itarsi, Jhansi, Lucknow, Gorakhpur, and Siwan before terminating at Chhapra. Bookings have been made available online through official railway platforms, including the NTES App. The special trains will feature varying configurations to meet passenger demand. Select services will include AC 2-tier and 3-tier coaches, sleeper compartments, and general second-class sections to accommodate diverse traveller needs. In total, twelve to fourteen coaches will be deployed per train, complemented by second seating and generator vans for operational efficiency.
Officials stated that the decision followed a marked increase in long-distance passenger demand post-pandemic, particularly along the Maharashtra–Uttar Pradesh–Bihar corridor. These regions witness heavy movement of migrant workers, students, and families returning home for festivals, often resulting in overbooked regular trains. The additional services are expected to reduce overcrowding and provide safer, more reliable travel options. Transport experts noted that seasonal augmentation of rail services contributes not only to passenger convenience but also to reduced road traffic and lower carbon emissions. “Every additional long-distance train reduces hundreds of private vehicle trips, easing highway congestion and improving fuel efficiency,” said an urban mobility expert, adding that long-term transport planning must integrate sustainability with accessibility.
Beyond festive travel, the move reflects Indian Railways’ wider strategy to expand rail-based transport as a low-carbon mobility solution. As India works towards net-zero emission targets, promoting efficient and inclusive public transport remains central to its urban and inter-state connectivity goals. Citizens have welcomed the announcement, urging authorities to ensure similar initiatives during major festivals and summer vacation periods. Improved coordination across zones, experts suggest, can ensure equitable mobility access and strengthen the country’s sustainable transport infrastructure.
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