Every year during Diwali and Chhath Puja, millions of people across India return to their hometowns, creating one of the busiest travel seasons for the country. To make the festive rush more manageable this year, Indian Railways has announced that it will run 12,000 special trains across key routes. This massive initiative is designed to reduce overcrowding and give passengers easier access to tickets that are often difficult to secure during the season.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that these trains will connect major destinations where travel demand is the highest, ensuring smoother and more convenient journeys. The Ministry of Railways has instructed zones to carefully monitor passenger loads and adjust services where required so that no route is left underserved.
Ticketing for these trains is available through the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation website, counters, and licensed agents. Officials have urged passengers to book their tickets in advance as demand is already high. The move is also aimed at reducing last-minute cancellations and the stress of not finding a confirmed seat.
Beyond just additional trains, Indian Railways is also focusing on safety and comfort. Extra staff, advanced surveillance, and cooperation with state police forces will be deployed at stations expected to see heavy crowds. Cleanliness, punctuality, and onboard services will also be prioritized to provide a better travel experience during the holidays.
This initiative marks one of the largest seasonal operations by Indian Railways in recent years, with a special focus on states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and West Bengal, where travel demand peaks during these festivals. For millions of families, these 12,000 trains will mean easier reunions and celebrations without the struggles of long waiting lists or overcrowded compartments.
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