In a significant and widely praised intervention, the Indian Railways has set up a dedicated help desk at Patna's Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport. This move comes as a direct response to the massive disruption in air travel caused by the ongoing cancellation of IndiGo flights, a situation that has persisted since December 4.
A Rare Humanitarian Gesture in Crisis
The help desk, operational round the clock in shifts, is manned by commercial staff from the Danapur division. Positioned in the airport's arrival hall, its primary function is to provide on-the-spot assistance to hundreds of affected travellers. According to Danapur senior divisional commercial manager (senior DCM) Abhinav Siddharth, the initiative is a rare humanitarian gesture aimed at supporting passengers during this unforeseen transport crisis. With flight operations remaining unstable for a fourth consecutive day, swelling crowds at the airport prompted this decisive railway intervention.
Immediate Solutions for Stranded Passengers
The railway desk is offering immediate, practical solutions to those left in the lurch. Services include instant ticket booking, seat confirmation, and guidance on available train services and special arrangements. Special attention is being given to elderly travellers and families with children, with coordination ensured for their smooth transit. Airport staff have also been instructed to direct all affected passengers to this railway assistance point.
To manage the sudden surge in demand, the railways has already initiated special trains between Patna and New Delhi. Additionally, extra coaches are being attached to high-demand mail and express trains, including premier services, to expand capacity and clear the unexpected rush. For centralised monitoring and assistance, a dedicated war room has been made functional at the Danapur control room.
Passenger Relief and Continued Support
Stranded passengers have expressed immense relief and gratitude for the railways' timely action. One relieved passenger shared, "We had no idea how long we would be stuck here. The railway help desk helped us book a ticket to Delhi within minutes." This sentiment echoes the experience of many who found themselves without travel options, especially those headed to New Delhi and other major destinations.
Senior DCM Abhinav Siddharth confirmed that the railway help desk will continue its operations at the Patna airport until flight services stabilise. This ensures that every stranded traveller has a reliable and hassle-free alternative to continue their journey, showcasing a commendable example of inter-modal transport cooperation during a public service crisis.
