Pune Runs 1052 Special Trains Serving 15 Lakh Festive Passengers
Pune is witnessing unprecedented festive travel preparations as the Central Railway Division ramps up operations to handle the Diwali and Chhath Puja rush. Between September 19 and December 4, 2025, the Pune Division is set to operate 1,052 special train trips, aimed at serving over 15.23 lakh passengers. The festive surge is projected to peak between October 23 and 26, when ten special trains per day will depart from the city.
Officials from the Pune Division have expanded the station’s holding area to 21,500 square feet, accommodating up to 3,500 passengers with luggage, up from the original 6,000 square feet. All Bihar-bound trains have been assigned Platform 1, providing a seamless connection to the enlarged holding area and ensuring smoother passenger flow.Security and operational measures have been strengthened with a deployment of 209 personnel from the Railway Protection Force, Maharashtra Security Force, and Home Guard, along with 30 ticket-checking staff to manage crowds efficiently.
Real-time monitoring and additional unreserved coaches are also being implemented to enhance safety and comfort.State-wise passenger trends indicate that Maharashtra, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh account for 77% of total travelers during the festive period, reflecting the high demand for north- and east-bound routes. Routes to Rajasthan and Delhi are also experiencing steady traffic, highlighting the wide regional impact of Pune’s festive travel operations.
As of October 23, 442 trips have already ferried 6.69 lakh passengers, while 610 trips remain scheduled, expected to carry another 8.54 lakh. Officials emphasised that advanced planning and crowd management strategies, including clearly marked queues and frequent announcements, are central to maintaining efficiency and safety amid the seasonal surge.Experts and railway officials alike stress that these initiatives are part of a broader push for sustainable and safe travel solutions, especially during peak festive seasons. By deploying additional coaches, streamlining boarding processes, and enhancing security coordination, the Pune Division aims to minimise congestion, reduce delays, and provide a comfortable travel experience for all passengers.
The railway’s approach reflects an evolving focus on passenger-centric operations, with attention to operational efficiency, crowd management, and travel convenience. The festive surge also underscores Pune’s role as a major transport hub, connecting central Maharashtra to northern and eastern regions while accommodating the city’s growing commuter and pilgrim population.The festive preparedness, while primarily operational, also aligns with the city’s broader agenda of equitable and safe public transport. By ensuring orderly travel and proactive crowd control, Pune is not only facilitating a smoother festive experience but also setting a precedent for sustainable and passenger-focused railway operations in India’s major cities.
