Will 1,205 Special Trains Be Enough to Manage Chhath Festival Rush?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
With the Chhath festival approaching, the Indian government is launching 1,205 special trains to ensure safe travel for passengers. These measures aim to manage the expected surge in travelers, with enhanced facilities and real-time monitoring set to improve the overall experience. Will this be enough to meet the demand?
Key Takeaways
- 1,205 special trains will operate for the Chhath festival.
- Enhanced safety and comfort measures are in place.
- Real-time coordination systems have been established.
- New facilities at New Delhi Station support passenger needs.
- Travelers have expressed satisfaction with rail arrangements.
New Delhi, Oct 23 (NationPress) The government announced on Thursday that alongside the routine train operations, 1,205 special trains will be introduced over the next four days to cater to the increased demand during the Chhath festival. With a peak in passenger numbers anticipated, the Railways are ramping up efforts to ensure safe and comfortable travel for all ahead of Chhath Puja.
Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that designated holding and waiting areas have been established to facilitate orderly entry at train stations. Approximately 10,700 reserved and 3,000 unreserved trains are in place to effectively manage the festive influx.
The minister explained that the required number of special trains is determined through a thorough analysis of data from the past two years, which is used to predict demand for various destinations.
During a visit to the War Room at the Railway Board in New Delhi, he reviewed passenger flow during the festive period. Vaishnaw mentioned that War Rooms are operational at the Division, Zone, and Railway Board levels, receiving live updates from all locations.
Additionally, mini control rooms have been established at key stations for real-time coordination regarding station statuses, extra train requirements, and other operational necessities.
A new permanent holding area at New Delhi Station significantly enhances passenger convenience, accommodating over 7,000 individuals, and featuring 150 toilets each for men and women, automatic ticket vending machines, ticket counters, and free RO water, as noted by the Union Minister.
Today, 30 special trains were planned to commence from major stations in the Delhi area, along with 6 passing special trains. On October 24, an additional 17 special trains are set to operate from significant stations in the Delhi area.
To manage the travel surge effectively, a comprehensive schedule for special trains has been established. Out of over 12,000 special trains being run across India from October 1 to November 30, 2025, around 2,220 will serve destinations in Bihar to meet festive travel needs.
Travelers heading to Bihar have voiced their approval of the railway arrangements, commending the special trains, the cleanliness, and the overall travel experience.
Shambhavi Bhardwaj, who traveled from New Delhi to Sonpur, praised the cleanliness and facilities available at both the railway station and on the train. Passengers journeying through Anand Vihar–Bhagalpur via Vikramshila Express also appreciated the services provided by the Indian Railways.
Point of View
I stand with the nation in recognizing the government's proactive measures to facilitate safe and efficient travel during the Chhath festival. The introduction of special trains and the establishment of monitoring systems demonstrate a commitment to passenger needs, reflecting the importance of ensuring smooth travel experiences during peak times.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many special trains will operate during the Chhath festival?
1,205 special trains are set to operate over the next four days to manage the increased passenger demand during the Chhath festival.
What measures are in place to ensure passenger safety and comfort?
The Railways have implemented holding areas, added toilet facilities, and set up mini control rooms for real-time coordination to enhance passenger safety and comfort.
How is the number of special trains determined?
The required number of special trains is calculated using data analysis from the previous two years to accurately assess demand for each destination.
What facilities are available at New Delhi Station for passengers?
The New Delhi Station features a holding area for over 7,000 people, 150 toilets each for men and women, automatic ticket vending machines, and free RO water.
When will the special trains start operating?
The special trains are scheduled to commence operations from today, with additional trains planned for the upcoming days.
