In a major move to accommodate the surge in passenger traffic during the upcoming harvest festival, the South Central Railway (SCR) zone has announced a massive special train service. The railway administration is set to operate close to 150 additional trains to ensure smooth and convenient travel for devotees and tourists heading to various pilgrimage and celebration centers.
Extensive Preparations for Festival Travel
The special train services are scheduled to run from January 8, 2026, until January 18, 2026, covering the peak travel period around Makar Sankranti. This proactive measure by SCR aims to prevent overcrowding at stations and in regular trains, providing dedicated connectivity for the festive rush. The announcement was made by the railway authorities keeping in view the historical trend of heavy passenger movement during this time of the year.
These nearly 150 special trains will connect key destinations across the SCR network, with a significant focus on routes leading to the famous Tirumala Tirupati Balaji temple. Pilgrims visiting the hill shrine are expected to be the primary beneficiaries of this enhanced service. The initiative underscores the railway's commitment to facilitating hassle-free pilgrimage travel during important religious occasions.
Connecting Key Destinations and Festive Celebrations
Beyond Tirupati, the special trains will also cater to passengers traveling to other parts of the country for Makar Sankranti celebrations. The festival, marked by kite flying, traditional sweets, and family gatherings, sees substantial inter-state movement. The SCR's plan includes additional coaches on existing trains and fully scheduled special trains on high-demand routes.
Travelers can expect improved connectivity from major cities and towns within the SCR zone to various destinations. The railway has advised passengers to check the official schedules and book their tickets in advance to secure their seats on these special services. This large-scale operational plan is designed to manage the expected influx efficiently and ensure passenger safety and comfort.
Ensuring a Smooth Journey for Devotees and Tourists
The deployment of 150 special trains represents one of the most significant festive season preparations by the South Central Railway. It highlights the systematic planning undertaken by Indian Railways to handle seasonal peaks in travel demand. By adding substantial capacity, the railways aim to reduce the burden on the regular timetable and offer more travel options to the public.
This initiative is particularly crucial for Makar Sankranti, a festival with deep cultural and religious significance across many states. The focus on the Tirupati route acknowledges its status as one of the busiest pilgrimage circuits in the world. Passengers are encouraged to stay updated through official SCR channels for exact train numbers, timings, and halts as the operational details are finalized closer to the date.
