As the festival season approaches, the Indian Railways has announced a significant plan to facilitate travel for those returning home for the upcoming celebrations. To accommodate the needs of more than one crore passengers during this festive period, the railway will run 6,000 special trains for Durga Puja, Diwali, and Chhath. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared this update with the media, highlighting that, due to the expected surge in passengers during the festive season, an additional 108 coaches will be added to existing trains, along with the approval of 12,500 new coaches. This is particularly important for routes to Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal, where heavy crowds are anticipated during these festivals.

Festival Dates to Note

Vaishnaw indicated that, as of now, a total of 5,975 special trains have been announced for this year's festival season, compared to 4,429 last year. This increase aims to make travel more convenient for over one crore passengers returning home. The Durga Puja festivities will begin on October 9, Diwali will be celebrated on October 31, and Chhath Puja will take place on November 7 and 8 this year.

Benefits for Passengers from Bihar and Jharkhand

This initiative by the Railways will particularly benefit passengers from Bihar and Jharkhand, as many individuals from these states migrate to other regions for work. The availability of special trains will ease their journey home during the festival season, allowing them to celebrate with their families.