In a significant move to address widespread passenger inconvenience, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has announced a major capacity boost for rail services. This intervention comes as a direct response to the ongoing cancellations of Indigo flights, which have severely disrupted travel plans across the northeastern region.
Extra Coaches for Key Trains Until Mid-December
The railway zone has taken concrete steps to alleviate the crisis by augmenting several important trains with additional coaches. Starting from Saturday, extra coaches have been added to seven pairs of major trains, a measure set to continue for different services until between December 12 and 16. This strategic timing aims to cater to the surge in demand during the busy festive and winter tourism season.
NFR's Chief Public Relations Officer, Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, explained the rationale behind the decision. With flight operations being severely affected, there has been a massive spike in demand for both inbound and outbound train services. The temporary attachment of extra coaches is a targeted effort to manage this increased passenger load efficiently.
Special Trains for Critical Routes
Beyond just adding coaches, NFR has also rolled out a plan for special train services to provide direct relief. Two special trains have been scheduled for December 8 to connect crucial hubs. One service will run from Dibrugarh to New Delhi via Guwahati, while another will connect Guwahati to Howrah on the same day.
These specials are expected to be a lifeline for numerous passengers who had initially booked flights but found themselves stranded due to the sudden cancellations. Railway officials emphasized that the overarching goal is to accommodate stranded travelers and ensure smooth connectivity remains intact across the northeastern states.
A Proactive Step for Regional Connectivity and Tourism
The NFR's swift action is being viewed as a proactive approach to passenger welfare. The decision holds particular importance as tourist footfall sees a seasonal rise in states like Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Mizoram. The enhanced rail capacity is poised to benefit both local residents and visitors, supporting the regional economy during a peak period.
Sources within the railway administration highlighted that this move is not just about managing a crisis but also about restoring passenger confidence in the transport infrastructure of the region. The Indigo flight cancellations had created a significant void in travel options, and NFR's timely measures are seen as a crucial step in filling that gap and ensuring mobility during the crucial winter months.
