Indian Railways Operates 195 Special Trains for Chhath Puja 2024

Chhath Puja is a significant festival celebrated primarily in the northern and eastern regions of India, particularly in states like Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Bihar. This festival, dedicated to the Sun God, involves various rituals and is marked by a strong sense of community and devotion. As the festival approaches, many people travel back to their hometowns to celebrate with family and friends. To facilitate this mass movement of passengers, Indian Railways has announced the operation of 195 special trains over a 13-day period from the Delhi area.

Railway Board Chairman Satish Kumar recently conducted an inspection of the facilities and shared that the Railways is making extensive arrangements to accommodate the influx of travelers. He stated, "We are operating extra trains as part of the arrangements. We are operating 195 special trains in 13 days from the Delhi area this year." On a typical day, around 70 trains are running from Delhi, including 16 special trains and 4 unannounced trains. This proactive approach aims to ensure that passengers have a smooth travel experience during this busy time.

In addition to the special trains, the Railway Board has made arrangements at major stations such as New Delhi, Anand Vihar, and Mumbai, among others. Kumar emphasized the importance of these arrangements, saying, "The special arrangements are for people travelling to their hometowns during Chhath Puja. We are running various trains to Bihar and Uttar Pradesh to accommodate the rush." With over 160 trains already in operation and plans to increase this number, the Railways is committed to ensuring safe and efficient travel for all.

To manage the large crowds expected during this festive season, the Government Railway Police (GRP) and Railways Protection Force (RPF) staff have been deployed at key locations. Additionally, Rail Sewaks are available to assist travelers with any inquiries they may have. Kumar noted, "We have restricted unnecessary movement of travellers, and Rail Sewaks are on hand to assist senior and physically challenged citizens." This level of support is crucial in maintaining order and ensuring that everyone can travel comfortably.

Moreover, special coaches have been added to the trains, and hundreds of CCTV cameras have been installed at stations to monitor the movement of people. Tickets can be booked through both online and offline systems, and for those who cannot secure confirmed tickets, unreserved seats are available. This flexibility is essential for accommodating the high demand during the festival.

Chhath Puja is not just a festival; it is a time for families to come together and celebrate their traditions. The efforts made by Indian Railways to facilitate travel during this period reflect a commitment to serving the community. As the festival draws near, it is heartening to see such extensive preparations in place, ensuring that everyone can partake in the celebrations with ease and joy. With the right arrangements, this Chhath Puja promises to be a memorable occasion for many.