New Delhi: With Chhath Puja approaching, railway stations across several regions are witnessing a rise in passenger numbers as people prepare to travel to their hometowns for the festival. To handle the additional rush, Indian Railways has announced special arrangements, including the operation of 214 special trains making a total of 2,044 trips.
The initiative aims to make festive travel more convenient and reduce overcrowding in regular trains. Along with additional train services, railway authorities have strengthened passenger facilities and security arrangements at stations to ensure safer journeys.
A large number of people travel from different cities and states, particularly towards Bihar and neighbouring regions, to celebrate Chhath Puja with their families. The increased demand has prompted the Railways to take additional steps to manage passenger movement.
Indian Railways Runs 214 Special Trains for Chhath Puja
To accommodate the increased number of passengers during the festive period, Indian Railways has arranged 214 special trains that will collectively operate 2,044 trips.
These additional services are intended to provide more travel options for passengers returning home for Chhath Puja. The arrangements are also expected to ease pressure on regular trains, which generally experience heavy demand during major festivals.
Railway authorities have also increased attention towards passenger convenience at stations, with arrangements to manage boarding, deboarding and movement across crowded platforms.
According to Railway Public Relations Officer Sumit Kumar, a significant number of passengers travel to their hometowns during Chhath Puja, making additional train services necessary.
Security Increased at Railway Stations
Passenger safety has become a major priority during the festive rush. Railway authorities have deployed additional personnel from the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP), with support from Bihar Police.
CCTV cameras are also being used to monitor station premises and keep track of passenger movement. These surveillance arrangements are intended to help security personnel identify suspicious activities and respond quickly when necessary.
Security teams are also managing crowds on platforms and assisting passengers during train arrivals and departures.
Regular Trains Continue to Face Heavy Crowding
Despite the introduction of special services, several regular trains are still experiencing considerable overcrowding.
The Bagh Express, which operates between Kathgodam and Howrah via Gorakhpur and Siwan, is among the trains facing heavy passenger traffic. The situation has created difficulties for travellers, particularly while boarding and finding space inside coaches.
RPF and GRP personnel have been deployed at railway stations to regulate passenger movement and help ensure that people can board and leave trains safely.
The Railways is continuing its efforts to manage the additional demand and maintain order at busy stations during the festival period.
Railway Advisory for Passengers Travelling During Chhath
With passenger numbers increasing during Chhath Puja, railway authorities have advised travellers to remain alert and follow safety instructions throughout their journey.
Passengers should avoid attempting to board or get off a moving train under any circumstances. They should also check their train’s departure time, schedule and current running status before leaving for the station.
Travellers are encouraged to cooperate with railway staff and security personnel, particularly at crowded platforms.
Through additional train services, stronger security arrangements and improved crowd management, Indian Railways is aiming to make Chhath Puja travel safer and more convenient for passengers returning home to celebrate the festival with their families.
Disclaimer: Train numbers, operating schedules and passenger facilities may change depending on railway requirements. The information in this article is based on the details provided and is intended for general awareness. Passengers should verify the latest train timings, availability and travel updates through official Indian Railways channels before beginning their journey.