How Did 244 Special Trains Transport Over 4.5 Lakh Devotees During Mauni Amavasya?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Indian Railways operated 244 special trains during Mauni Amavasya.
- Over 4.5 lakh passengers were transported safely.
- Effective planning ensured all regular trains ran on schedule.
- Special services aimed at providing hassle-free travel.
- Indian Railways continues to enhance its operational efficiency.
New Delhi, Jan 19 (NationPress) The Indian Railways effectively handled rail traffic during the Mauni Amavasya celebration, operating 244 special trains nationwide since January 3. This initiative ensured smooth and convenient travel for devotees, as stated in an official announcement from the Ministry of Railways on Monday.
Among these trains, there were 31 from Northern Railway (NR), 158 from North Central Railway (NCR), and 55 from North Eastern Railway (NER), serving approximately 4.5 lakh passengers. These special services were meticulously organized to enable hassle-free journeys and safe travel during this festive time.
On January 18, Prayagraj experienced the height of festive travel with 40 special trains, which included 11 from NR, 22 from NCR, and 7 from NER, collectively transporting around 1 lakh passengers. Importantly, all regular trains operated on schedule, showcasing Indian Railways' effective planning and operational proficiency, the statement noted.
“The successful management of these special trains illustrates Indian Railways’ dedication to providing safe, convenient, and uninterrupted services to passengers during peak festive periods. The railways continue to harness technology, meticulous resource planning, and inter-zone coordination to efficiently manage extensive passenger movements,” the statement emphasized.
Previously, Indian Railways conducted over 43,000 special train trips in 2025 to assure seamless travel and alleviate congestion during significant religious festivals and peak holiday seasons.
Throughout the year, Indian Railways executed one of its largest special train operations for the Maha Kumbh, running 17,340 special train trips from January 13 to February 28, 2025, to facilitate the transport of a large number of pilgrims. For Holi, 1,144 special train trips were carried out between March 1 and March 22, 2025, nearly doubling the frequency of Holi 2024, ensuring greater availability and smoother festive travel.
The summer travel season of 2025, covering April 1 to June 30, witnessed the operation of 12,417 Summer Special train trips, maintaining high service levels during peak vacation months.
Special provisions for Chhath Puja 2025 were enhanced, with 12,383 special train trips conducted between October 1 and November 30, 2025, reflecting a significant increase compared to the previous year, according to official statistics.