As the festive season approaches, Indian Railways is gearing up to operate a staggering 7,000 special trains, including clone trains, to accommodate the anticipated surge of passengers during Diwali and Chhath Puja. This significant increase in train services reflects the railway’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and ensuring a smoother travel experience for millions across the country.
Executive Director of Information and Publicity at the Railway Board, emphasised that the initiative aims to cater to the large influx of travellers, particularly to states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, which see a substantial rise in passenger numbers during this period. “This year, we are expanding our services significantly. In comparison to last year’s 4,300 special trains, we are proud to announce over 7,000 trains will operate from major stations across India, including New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru,” he stated. Northern Railway, in particular, has announced over 3,000 festival-special trips from October 1 to November 30. The focus is predominantly on catering to passengers travelling eastwards, with approximately 85% of these trains directed towards destinations in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Assam. The Northern Railway plans to run an impressive 65 extra trains daily from Delhi during the festival period, which is an increase from the 59 trains operated last year.
In a strategic move to further alleviate the passenger rush, Indian Railways will introduce clone trains that will operate 15 minutes after the departure of popular services. This measure is designed to ensure that those who may not secure a seat on the primary trains can still travel without significant delay. The railway authority is also enhancing security measures, deploying additional personnel from the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) at key stations. Ticket counter facilities will be increased to manage the heavy footfall, ensuring that passengers can secure their tickets with ease. From a sustainability perspective, the operation of additional trains presents an opportunity to reduce road congestion and lower carbon emissions. By providing a robust public transport option during peak travel seasons, Indian Railways plays a crucial role in promoting greener travel alternatives. The sentiment among passengers is one of relief and gratitude. Many travellers express appreciation for the proactive measures taken by Indian Railways. Anil Sharma, a frequent commuter, shared, “With the festive rush, it’s often a challenge to find a train. I’m glad to see the railway is stepping up its game this year.”
