The Eastern Railways (ER) is gearing up for the festive rush with a special ‘Trains on Demand’ scheme, designed to cater to the increased passenger demand during Diwali and Chhath Puja. This scheme, effective from October 30th to November 6th, is a welcome relief for travelers planning their festive journeys.
’Trains on Demand’ Scheme: A Festive Solution
The ‘Trains on Demand’ scheme, also known as TOD, is a temporary measure introduced by the Indian Railways to accommodate the surge in travelers during special occasions like festivals. It involves running additional trains, often referred to as ‘Festival Special Trains,’ to handle the extra passenger load.
ER’s Strategic Response
To ensure smooth travel during the festive season, the ER has planned a comprehensive approach, deploying 50 special trains and providing 400 additional services. This signifies a significant increase from last year’s 33 special trains, demonstrating the railway’s commitment to meeting the increased passenger demands. The ER has also made a conscious effort to include a large number of general coaches, ensuring that everyone can celebrate Diwali and Chhath Puja with their loved ones.
Delhi-Bound Travel Focus
Recognizing the high volume of travelers heading towards Delhi, the ER has strategically prioritized routes to the capital and its surrounding areas. This includes special trains departing from cities like Asansol, Malda, Howrah, and others, all converging towards Delhi.
Special Train Schedule for October 30th
The ER has shared a list of special trains operational on October 30th, 2024, on its social media platform, X. The Indian Railways has also released a comprehensive list of festival special trains running across the country, ensuring that passengers have access to all the information they need.
This proactive approach by the Eastern Railways promises to alleviate travel stress during the festive season, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey for everyone.
