Indian Railways has announced 179 special trains till Chhath Puja this year to meet increased demand during the festive season. These special trains will connect major destinations across the country on routes such as Delhi- Patna, Delhi- Bhagalpur, Delhi-Muzaffarpur, Delhi-Saharsa among others.

The Railways will run 2269 trips of 179 special trains (in pairs) till Chhath Puja this year for the convenience of rail travellers and to clear extra rush of passengers, said the Ministry of Railways.

The ministry also announced additional measures such as enhanced crowd control on the railway platforms, additional RPF personnel and increased frequency of announcements to deal with the festive rush.

“Crowd controlling measures by forming queues at the terminus stations under the supervision of RPF staff for orderly entry of passengers in unreserved coaches is being ensured. Additional RPF personnel have been deployed at major stations to ensure security of passengers. Officers are deployed on Emergency Duty at major stations to ensure smooth running of trains. Staff are deployed in various sections to attend any disruption of train service on priority,” the ministry statement added.

Measures have been taken for frequent and timely announcement of arrival/departure of trains with platform numbers, it added.

Also, “May I Help You” booths are kept operational at important stations where RPF Personnel and TTEs are deputed for providing proper assistance to passengers. Medical Teams are available at major stations on call. Ambulance with paramedical team is also available.

A watch on any malpractices – like cornering of seats, over charging and touting activity etc. by the Security and Vigilance Department staff is being done and strictly monitored. Instructions, for maintaining cleanliness at waiting halls, retiring rooms, platforms in particular, and at stations in general, have been given by Zonal Headquarters, the ministry added.