Indian Railways Update: Passenger rush on trains surges as the festive season begins. In response, Indian Railways is preparing to launch special trains on numerous routes to improve passenger convenience. Additionally, Indian Railways is adjusting services on certain existing trains. This decision comes because passenger volumes between states—including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Delhi—increase significantly during Diwali and Chhath Puja.
Operation of Special Trains for Diwali and Chhath
The number of passengers travelling home during festivals rises sharply. Consequently, ‘Festival Special’ trains are being operated on various routes. Reports indicate that special trains have been announced for Varanasi, Ayodhya, and major cities in Bihar. The primary objective of these trains is to ease pressure on regular train services and give passengers additional travel options.
With the festivals approaching, special services are being extended on routes connecting Delhi with Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Plans are in place to run special trains on routes such as Varanasi-Delhi, Chandigarh-Patna, and Firozpur Cantt-Patna.
Relief on the Delhi-Kanpur Route
Indian Railways has introduced two special superfast trains connecting Delhi/Anand Vihar Terminal with Kanpur Central. These services will operate on scheduled days between September and November 2026, offering travellers between Delhi and Kanpur additional train options.
Changes in Train Timings
As the festive season draws near, Indian Railways has also revised the timings of certain trains to optimise operations. For instance, the departure times for the Varanasi-Ranchi and Varanasi-Deoghar Vande Bharat Express trains have been changed; both trains will now depart 10 minutes earlier than before. Passengers are advised to check the updated train timetables when booking tickets for the upcoming period.
Find out which routes will be affected
While Indian Railways is operating extra trains, ongoing construction work at various locations is also affecting train operations.
Numerous trains will be cancelled, short-terminated, or rerouted between September and October due to yard-related work on the Bina-Agasod section in Madhya Pradesh. Passengers are advised to check their train status before travelling. Similarly, construction work on Southern Railway routes in September has led to schedule changes, partial cancellations, and delays for many trains.
What should passengers do?
If you are planning to travel by train during Diwali, Chhath, or other festivals, book your tickets well in advance. Additionally, check the updated train timetable and current running status before your journey. If there is information regarding route changes or cancellations, verify it through official railway channels. When booking special trains, ensure you check the travel dates and scheduled stops.
When to start booking tickets
Train ticket bookings for Diwali 2026 begin on September 6; the Railways has advised passengers to plan their travel in advance to avoid the festive rush.