As the festive season approaches, Indian Railways has rolled out an extensive plan to ensure smooth travel for millions of passengers during Diwali and Chhath Puja 2025. The national transporter will operate a massive fleet of 1,194 special trains between October and November, providing much-needed relief to travelers facing the annual festive rush.
Massive Operation to Handle Festival Traffic
The railway ministry has strategically scheduled these additional services to connect key pilgrimage centers and major cities across the country. The special train operation will run from October 19th through November, covering peak travel periods for both Diwali celebrations and Chhath Puja observances.
Key Routes and Major Hubs
Among the prominent routes receiving special attention are:
- Delhi-Patna corridor with multiple daily services
- Mumbai-UP-Bihar sector with enhanced connectivity
- Eastern Railway and Northern Railway zones operating maximum trains
- Important connections to pilgrimage sites and major urban centers
Strategic Scheduling for Maximum Impact
The railways have timed these special trains to accommodate the traditional travel patterns during these major festivals. The first wave begins on October 19th, perfectly aligned with pre-Diwali travel, while subsequent services will cater to Chhath Puja pilgrims returning to their hometowns for the sacred celebrations.
What This Means for Travelers
This massive deployment of special trains is expected to:
- Significantly reduce waiting lists on popular routes
- Provide affordable travel options during peak season
- Ease congestion at major railway stations
- Ensure timely arrivals for festival celebrations
Pro tip: Book your tickets early as these special trains are likely to fill up quickly despite the increased capacity.
Comprehensive Coverage Across Zones
The special train operation spans multiple railway zones, with Eastern Railway and Northern Railway taking the lead in this massive logistical exercise. The railways have carefully analyzed passenger demand patterns from previous years to optimize the train schedules and routes.
This initiative demonstrates Indian Railways' commitment to serving the traveling public during one of the busiest periods in the annual calendar, ensuring that festival joy isn't dampened by travel woes.
