As Chhath Puja 2024 approaches, Indian Railways is taking significant steps to accommodate travelers during this important festival. According to Ferozepur DCM Payal, special trains will be operational from various key stations, including Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Jammu Tawi, Amritsar, and Ludhiana. This announcement was made on November 4, highlighting the commitment of Indian Railways to facilitate safe travel for those heading to their hometowns for the celebrations.

“Special trains will be operational from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Jammu Tawi, Amritsar and Ludhiana, both in reserved and unreserved categories. Measures have been taken to ensure the safety and security of passengers and a special help desk has also been established,” stated Payal. She reassured passengers that Indian Railways is dedicated to enhancing their travel experience during the festive season.

Extensive Train Operations

Earlier, Railway Board Chairman Satish Kumar provided further details on the extensive operations planned for the Chhath Puja period. He confirmed that 195 special trains would be run over 13 days from the Delhi area, designed specifically to manage the increased passenger flow during the festival. “We are operating extra trains as part of the arrangements. Today, 70 trains are running from Delhi, of which 16 are special trains, and 4 trains are unannounced,” Kumar noted, assuring that passenger satisfaction is a priority for the railways.

In addition, special arrangements are being made at major railway stations across the country, including New Delhi, Anand Vihar, Ahmedabad, Surat, Baroda, Mumbai, Bandra, Vijayawada, Vishakhapatnam, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru. Dilip Kumar, Executive Director of Information and Publicity for the Railway Board, mentioned that the railways are specifically focusing on routes to Bihar and Uttar Pradesh to cater to the high demand for travel during the festival.

Safety Measures and Support

To ensure passenger safety, the Government Railway Police (GRP) and Railways Protection Force (RPF) personnel will be deployed at stations to manage crowds effectively. Rail Sewaks will also be available to assist travelers with inquiries, especially supporting senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. “Tickets can be booked through both online and offline systems. Those unable to obtain confirmed tickets can access unreserved seats,” Kumar explained, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a streamlined travel experience.

Significance of Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja is a significant festival predominantly celebrated in the northern and eastern regions of India, especially in states like Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Bihar. The festival is dedicated to the Sun God and involves a series of rituals, including fasting, offering prayers, and performing arghya (offering of water) to the setting and rising sun.

With Indian Railways making substantial preparations for Chhath Puja 2024, travelers can expect a smooth and enjoyable journey as they return home to celebrate this cherished festival with their families.

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