Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, visited the War Room at the Railway Board in New Delhi today and reviewed passenger movement during the festive season. Shri Vaishnaw said War rooms have been set up at the Division, Zone, and Railway Board levels. He said the Board receives live feeds from all locations. He added that mini control rooms have also been established at major stations. This monitoring system enables real-time coordination across the country regarding the status of every station, the requirement for additional trains, and other operational needs.

The Union Minister said that holding and waiting areas have ensured systematic entry of passengers at stations, adding that around 10,700 reserved and 3,000 unreserved trains have been deployed to manage the festive rush. He said that the exact number of special trains required is determined through data analysis of the past two years, which is fed into a model to assess the demand for each destination. Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw said that the first peak in passenger surge was observed between October 17 and 20, with the highest footfall on the 18th and 19th, while a second peak is expected between October 22 and 24.

A permanent holding area at New Delhi Station now offers great convenience to passengers, with a capacity for over 7,000 people, 150 toilets for men and 150 toilets for women, automatic ticket vending machines, ticket counters, and free RO water, the  Union Minister added.

Shri Ravneet Singh Bittu, Minister of State for Railways and Food Processing Industries visited Ambala Cantt Railway Station and inspected the special arrangements made by Indian Railways during the festive season.

Indian Railways Elevates Passenger Experience with Upgraded Services and Facilities

With the peak passenger surge expected between October 22 and 24, the Railways have intensified their efforts to ensure safe and comfortable travel for all passengers ahead of Chhath Puja. In addition to the regular train services, 1,205 special trains will operate over the next four days to accommodate the Chhath festival rush.

On 21.10.2025, 1,69,986 unreserved outward passengers boarded from the 6 major stations of Delhi area - New Delhi, Delhi Jn., Anand Vihar Terminal, Hazrat Nizamudin, Shakurbasti and Ghaziabad i.e. an increase of 5.62 % as compared to corresponding date of last year (next day of Diwali 01.11.2024). Similarly on 22.10.2025, 1,71,753 unreserved outward passengers boarded from the 6 major stations of Delhi area i..e. an increase of 7.01% as compared to corresponding date of last year (2nd day after Diwali 02.11.2024).

Today, 30 Special trains were scheduled to originate from the major stations of Delhi area apart from 6 passing Special trains. On 24rd October, 17 special trains are scheduled to operate from major stations in Delhi Area.

Through meticulous planning, enhanced passenger services, and a strong focus on convenience and care, Indian Railways is committed to delivering a seamless travel experience. To handle the surge in travel, a robust schedule of special trains has been put in place. Of the more than 12,000 special trains being operated across India between October 1 and November 30, 2025, as many as 2,220 will cater to Bihar to meet the festive travel demand.

Passengers traveling to Bihar have expressed their satisfaction with the arrangements made by the railways, praising the special trains, cleanliness, and seamless travel experience. Shambhavi Bhardwaj travelled from New Delhi to Sonpur and appreciated the cleanliness and facilities available at the railway station and on the train.

Passengers travelling through Anand Vihar–Bhagalpur via Vikramshila Express appreciated the facilities and arrangements provided by the Indian Railways.

Passengers on festive special trains shared their appreciation for Indian Railways’ upgraded facilities as well.

The cleanliness arrangements at Hajipur station of the Sonpur Division have impressed not only Indian passengers but also foreign visitors.

Many passengers praised the facilities at the Yatri Suvidha Kendra at New Delhi Railway Station. They also appreciated the cleanliness and overall arrangements.

Compassionate Assistance by Railways Amid Festival Rush

Despite the festival rush, dedicated railway employees provided special care to ensure the safe and comfortable travel of the elderly, differently-abled, and those in need during Chhath Puja.

A passenger experiencing labour pain at New Delhi Railway Station received prompt assistance and immediate first aid. The lady staff accompanied her to the hospital for further care. Indian Railways remains dedicated to ensuring timely medical support for every passenger in need.

With its vast network, committed workforce, and passenger-focused approach, Indian Railways remains steadfast in its promise to serve every traveller with efficiency and care. From operating additional trains to maintaining cleanliness, safety, and punctuality, every effort is directed toward ensuring smooth travel during the festive rush. The proactive measures and dedication of Railway staff underscore the organisation’s commitment to making festive season journeys safe, reliable, and well-coordinated for passengers nationwide.

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Dharmendra Tewari/ Dr. Nayan Solanki/ Manik Sharma