Meeting the Unprecedented Demand
Every year, the period from Dussehra to Chhath Puja sees millions of people travelling back to their hometowns, leading to an overwhelming demand for train tickets. Routes connecting major metropolitan areas like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru to states
such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal become particularly congested. Recognizing this annual challenge, Indian Railways has planned a significant increase in services to ensure more passengers can travel home comfortably and safely. For the 2026 festive season, the national transporter has notified a staggering 8,454 special train trips to be run between October and November, in addition to its regular services. This initiative aims to prevent overcrowding on trains and at stations, making the journey less stressful for everyone.
Key Routes and Special Services
The additional services are strategically planned to cover the most high-demand corridors. A significant portion of these trains will cater to passengers travelling to Bihar and Uttar Pradesh for Chhath Puja. For instance, Northern Railway has introduced a second pair of Vande Bharat special trains between New Delhi and Patna, significantly boosting connectivity on this crucial route. Other important routes getting special services include connections from Amritsar to Jaynagar and Katihar, Chandigarh to Patna, and trains from Bathinda and Jammu Tawi to Varanasi. The South Central Railway has also announced over 700 special services connecting major hubs with destinations like Prayagraj, Danapur, and Santragachi. Similarly, special trains will link Guntur with Kolkata and SMVT Bengaluru with Rangapara North in Assam, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the country.
A Mix of Coaches and Fares
To cater to a wide range of passengers, these special trains will feature a mix of coach classes. A typical rake for these services includes AC 2-tier, AC 3-tier, sleeper class, and general second-class coaches, providing options for various budgets. However, travellers should note that fares on these 'special' trains are often subject to dynamic pricing and may be higher than on regular mail or express trains on the same route. This fare structure is designed to manage demand while covering the operational costs of running these additional services. Passengers are advised to check the fare details at the time of booking to avoid any surprises.
How to Book Your Tickets
Booking for these festive special trains has already commenced and can be done through the official IRCTC website, the IRCTC Rail Connect mobile app, and at computerised Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters at railway stations. Given the high demand, tickets are expected to sell out quickly. It is highly advisable to book as far in advance as possible. The standard advance reservation period is typically 60 days, so planning ahead is crucial. Passengers should be wary of touts and only use official channels for booking. Enhanced security measures, including the deployment of Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel, are also being put in place at major stations to manage crowds and ensure passenger safety.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Journey
To ensure your festive travel is as smooth as possible, a little preparation goes a long way. First, confirm your train's schedule and platform number before leaving for the station, as timings for special trains can sometimes be adjusted. Arrive at the station well in advance to avoid any last-minute rush, especially since major stations are expected to see heavy footfall. Travel with valid identification, as it is mandatory for ticket verification. Finally, pack light to make navigating crowded platforms easier and to ensure your luggage fits comfortably within your designated space on the train.
