Central Railway Launches 583 Special Trains for Diwali and Chhath Festivities

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Mumbai, 30th October 2024: In response to the surge in passenger demand during the festive season, Central Railway has launched 583 special train services, both reserved and unreserved, to facilitate smoother travel for passengers celebrating Diwali and Chhath Puja. These trains are part of Indian Railways’ broader initiative, which includes running 7,296 special trains across the country this year, a significant increase from the 4,500 trains operated during the same period last year. On October 29 and 30, Indian Railways ran 136 and 164 special trains, respectively.

The additional services are aimed at easing the travel of passengers heading back to their hometowns. These special trains consist of different configurations, including a mix of AC, sleeper, and general coaches, along with fully unreserved trains.

The festive special trains are connecting key cities such as Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur to destinations across India, including Danapur, Gorakhpur, Chhapra, Banaras, Samastipur, Asansol, Agartala, and Santragachi. In Maharashtra, special trains are also being run to places like Latur, Sawantwadi Road, Nagpur, Pune, Kolhapur, and Nanded. Additionally, for passengers traveling to southern states, trains are operating to destinations like Karimnagar, Kochuveli, Kazipet, and Bengaluru.

To enhance passenger convenience, Central Railway has introduced several measures to improve facilities at its stations. ‘May I Help You’ booths have been set up at major stations to assist passengers, and additional ticket counters have been opened to manage the increased crowd. Holding areas have been designated at major stations, offering facilities such as free drinking water, food, and restrooms, provided with the help of NGOs.

To ensure a smooth boarding process, Central Railway has deployed additional Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel and ticket-checking staff. They are tasked with maintaining security, directing passengers to their designated platforms, and ensuring adherence to safety protocols.

Passengers are advised to arrive at the stations early to avoid last-minute issues, as timely arrival will help streamline the boarding process and ensure a more comfortable journey.

In preparation for the expected rush, Central Railway has also implemented temporary restrictions on the sale of platform tickets at key stations, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Dadar, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus, Thane, Kalyan, Pune, and Nagpur. These restrictions, in place until November 8, 2024, aim to control crowding on the platforms. However, senior citizens and passengers with medical needs are exempt from these restrictions.

Additionally, to prevent overcrowding, restrictions on inward and outward luggage traffic at Thane and Kalyan stations will remain in effect until November 10, 2024.