Travel

Indian Railways has introduced a reserved quota of lower berths for senior citizens, women aged 45 and above, and pregnant women in various classes. A combined quota of six to seven lower berths per coach will be available in Sleeper Class, while 3AC and 2AC classes will have four to five and three to four lower berths, respectively. Additionally, senior citizens and eligible women will be automatically allotted lower berths, subject to availability. This initiative is part of broader efforts to improve comfort and accessibility, with Indian Railways also offering significant subsidies and special concessions for passengers with disabilities, patients, and students.

Indian Railways is running 360 trains, including 190 special services, to accommodate the millions of pilgrims expected at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on 'Mauni Amavasya'. The unprecedented effort includes enhanced infrastructure worth Rs 5,000 crore, with upgraded stations, new bridges, and improved rail lines. To ensure smooth travel, Indian Railways is providing ample amenities like new toilets, food courts, medical assistance, and special services at key stations. The coordinated effort with the Uttar Pradesh government also includes large waiting areas for pilgrims, ensuring a seamless experience for the millions attending the religious gathering.

The Railway Board has raised concerns over the 485 rail accidents reported across Indian Railways in the past 11 years, attributing many to human error within the Traffic Department. In a circular dated January 24, Hitendra Malhotra, Member (Operations and Business Development), highlighted key causes such as improper setting of points, failure to observe shunting rules, and breaches of block rules. Malhotra also pointed out that shortcuts taken during shunting operations, often due to time pressures, had become a dangerous habit among railway staff. To address these issues, the Railway Board has mandated the inclusion of accident case studies in training sessions and stressed the importance of fostering a culture where employees can report mistakes without fear of retribution.

As 2024 comes to an end, Google’s 'Year in Search' revealed the top travel destinations most Googled by Indians. Leading the list was Azerbaijan, with its mix of futuristic skylines and ancient culture, followed by the ever-popular Bali, known for its temples and natural beauty. Manali took third place, offering picturesque landscapes and adventure in Himachal Pradesh. Kazakhstan, with its stunning flora and visa-free travel policy, surprised many, while Jaipur remained a favorite for its cultural heritage. Other notable mentions include Georgia, Malaysia, Ayodhya, Kashmir, and South Goa, each drawing Indian travelers for their unique experiences.

An IndiGo test flight from Delhi’s IGI Airport successfully landed at Noida’s Jewar International Airport on Monday, marking a key milestone ahead of the airport’s commercial operations set to begin in April 2025. The flight, which underwent thorough security checks and assessments, was welcomed with a ceremonial water salute upon arrival. With the runway and safety protocols now verified, officials confirmed that Jewar Airport is ready to begin operations, having completed all necessary trials.