Train Cancellations Disrupt Group-D Exam Aspirants in Howrah and Asansol
Synopsis
On March 8, Kolkata faced significant train cancellations, impacting thousands of candidates scheduled for the Group-D recruitment exam. With over 8 lakh applications, the disruptions raised concerns about timely arrivals.
Key Takeaways
Train cancellations disrupt travel for Group-D exam candidates.
Over 8 lakh applications submitted for the exam.
Railway officials have adjusted schedules to ensure passenger safety .
Examination centres impose strict restrictions on candidates.
Support services remain open to assist affected passengers .
Kolkata, March 8 (NationPress) A number of local trains were cancelled on Sunday morning, leading to disruptions for candidates preparing for the Group-D recruitment examination.
Approximately 8,09,000 applications have been submitted for this Group-D written examination.
Railway officials reported that due to maintenance and disturbing block activities in various railway sectors of the Howrah and Asansol divisions, several train services have been suspended and some schedules altered to ensure safe and timely travel for passengers.
An Eastern Railway spokesperson stated, "To mitigate passenger inconvenience, information regarding all cancelled and rescheduled trains has been communicated in advance. We sincerely apologize for any disruptions caused. Passengers are advised to verify the schedule at their respective stations or on the official railway website before traveling."
The trains cancelled from Howrah station on Sunday include 37823, 37825, 37055, 37651, 37237, 37241, 36821, 36823, 36827, 36031, 36033, and 37917. Additionally, services from Bandel, Sheoraphuli, Pandua, Memari, Katwa, Azimganj, Burdwan, Chandanpur, Sealdah, and Dankuni have also been cancelled.
The Godda-Sealdah MEMU will now depart at 11:45 AM instead of 9:45 AM. Adjustments have also been made to the schedules of other trains.
In the Asansol division, the list of cancellations includes Dumka-JCD DEMU, Burdwan-Asansol MEMU, and Andal-Burdwan MEMU, among other passenger and MEMU trains. The timings for Howrah-Suri Hull Express and Asansol-Gaya MEMU trains have also been shifted by one hour.
The railway administration will keep ticket counters and help desks in Howrah and Asansol divisions operational to assist passengers. This special arrangement is aimed at ensuring that the maintenance and block activities are completed smoothly, allowing passengers to reach their destinations safely and orderly.
A total of 1,707 examination centres have been established for the Group-D recruitment written test conducted by the School Service Commission across the state.
For safety reasons, several restrictions have been imposed on candidates. Closed shoes or boots are not permitted; candidates must wear slippers or Hawaiian sandals to enter the exam centre. Carrying any electronic devices, including mobile phones, calculators, jewellery, or additional items is strictly prohibited. Only the admit card, clear water bottle, and pen are allowed.
The examination is set to begin at 12 PM and will end at 1:45 PM. However, candidates will only be allowed to exit the exam centres after 2 PM.
Point of View
The cancellation of several trains in Howrah and Asansol divisions presents a logistical challenge for candidates preparing for important examinations. The railway officials' proactive communication is commendable, yet the situation highlights the need for better contingency planning during major recruitment events.
NationPress
28 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the trains cancelled?
Trains were cancelled due to maintenance and block activities in the Howrah and Asansol railway divisions.
How many applications were submitted for the Group-D exam?
Approximately 8,09,000 applications were submitted for the Group-D written examination.
What measures are being taken for affected passengers?
Ticket counters and help desks will remain operational to assist passengers affected by the cancellations.
What are the restrictions for exam candidates?
Candidates are restricted from wearing closed shoes or carrying electronic devices, only the admit card, water bottle, and pen are allowed.
When does the Group-D exam start?
The Group-D examination is scheduled to start at 12 PM and conclude at 1:45 PM.
