In a bid to efficiently manage the surge in passenger traffic during the upcoming festive and pilgrimage season, the Indian Railways has announced the operation of special train services starting from August 8, 2025. This strategic move is expected to offer much-needed relief to travelers heading towards major pilgrimage centers and regional celebrations, particularly around Raksha Bandhan, Independence Day, and other religious congregations.
According to the announcement, these special trains will primarily cater to routes that witness heavy footfall during religious festivals, with a strong focus on Northern India, including states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, and others. These routes are typically overwhelmed by pilgrims traveling to sites such as Ayodhya, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Mathura, Haridwar, and Rishikesh during Sawan and other holy periods.
The Railways has laid out plans to ensure enhanced connectivity and smooth travel experiences for passengers. The special trains will operate from key cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad to various pilgrimage and cultural destinations. These trains are expected to be equipped with adequate facilities to handle large crowds and ensure comfort during long-distance travel.
Furthermore, Indian Railways is also expected to employ crowd control mechanisms and bolster security arrangements at major stations. Extra staff will be deployed to manage bookings, handle inquiries, and assist with boarding and deboarding. Special counters for ticketing and enquiry services will be set up, especially in zones experiencing peak demand.
In addition to providing relief to the general public, these special trains aim to reduce the pressure on regular services, which are often booked out weeks in advance during festive seasons. By proactively addressing the travel demand, Indian Railways is taking a customer-centric approach that emphasizes accessibility, affordability, and safety.
Passengers are encouraged to check the official Indian Railways website or use the IRCTC app to stay updated on schedules, fares, and seat availability. Bookings for these special trains are set to open soon, and early reservations are recommended to avoid last-minute hassles.
This initiative highlights Indian Railways’ commitment to serving the needs of the diverse population of the country, particularly during periods of heightened travel demand. With these preparations, the Railways hopes to ensure that the upcoming festivals and pilgrimages are celebrated without transportation woes, thereby enabling a smoother travel experience for millions of devotees and holidaymakers.
