Diwali & Chhath Puja 2026: Indian Railways Plans Over 6,200 Special Train Trips to Manage Festive Rush
The festive season brings millions of people across India onto the rail network as families make their way back home to celebrate Diwali and Chhath Puja. With passenger demand expected to rise significantly, Northern Railway has stepped up its preparations by planning more than 6,200 special train trips during the festive period.
Planning a Festive Trip?
Northern Railway Increases Special Train Services by 30%
According to reports, Northern Railway has announced around 3,600 special train trips so far, with the total expected to exceed 6,200 during the festive season.
Apart from introducing special services, the railway zone has also regularised 42 new trains this year. These trains are expected to contribute approximately 2,600 trips during the festive period, further expanding the available travel options.
The move is aimed at managing the seasonal passenger rush and reducing pressure on regular trains, which often witness high demand around Diwali and Chhath Puja.
Diwali and Chhath Puja 2026: Key Routes Covered by Special Trains
Several routes connecting Delhi and other northern cities to important destinations in eastern India are expected to benefit from the additional train services.
Some of the key routes on which special trains are operating include:
Delhi–Patna Vande Bharat: An important connection for passengers travelling between the national capital and Bihar.
Shakurbasti–Darbhanga: Providing an additional travel option for passengers heading towards Darbhanga.
Mata Vaishno Devi–Varanasi: Connecting two important destinations for religious travellers.
Chandigarh–Patna: Offering another option for passengers travelling between Chandigarh and Bihar.
New Delhi–Howrah: Catering to passengers travelling between Delhi and West Bengal.
Amritsar–Barauni: Connecting Punjab with an important destination in Bihar.
These additional services are expected to offer greater flexibility to passengers travelling during the festive rush. However, seat availability may differ depending on the train, travel date and destination.
With over 6,200 special train trips planned, Northern Railway is looking to make festive travel more accessible and ease the pressure on the existing rail network.
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