October marks the onset of the festive season in India, with major celebrations like Durga Puja, Diwali, and Chhath Puja on the horizon. In anticipation of the increased travel demand, Indian Railways has announced plans to introduce nearly 6,000 special trains to accommodate the surge in passengers.
This initiative is not new; every year, millions of people travel to their hometowns to celebrate these festivals with family, creating a significant demand for transportation. Indian Railways aims to serve over one crore (10 million) passengers during this festive period by providing additional services.
Routes to states such as Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal, known for their vibrant celebrations, are expected to see the highest demand. Durga Puja begins on October 6, followed by Diwali on November 1, and Chhath Puja on November 7 and 8.
While the exact routes, dates, and timings for the special trains have yet to be officially announced, Indian Railways is committed to enhancing the travel experience for passengers. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has indicated plans to increase the number of general coaches on 108 regular trains on popular routes, further improving capacity.
This year, Indian Railways plans to deploy 5,975 special trains, a notable increase compared to the 4,429 special trains operated last year during the festive season. Additionally, for Diwali and Chhath Puja, an extra 12,500 coaches will be provided to ensure a comfortable journey.
With trains being a vital part of India’s public transport system, especially during festive times, the move to introduce more special trains has been well-received. It is expected to alleviate congestion and make it easier for passengers to return home for celebrations with their families.
