The different divisions of the Indian Railways have been running these festive special trains to cover Diwali and Chhath Puja since November 1.
According to a release from the Ministry of Railways last month, for the convenience of rail travellers and to clear extra rush of passengers during this festive season, Indian Railways is running 668 trips of 110 special trains from Durga Puja till Chhatha Puja this year. Also, augmentation of coaches in regular trains is being done to ensure berth availability during this festive rush.
Northern Railway is running the highest number of special trains &ndash 26 &ndash with 312 trips.
According to the release, the railways has adopted various measures for a hassle-free and safe journey.
Crowd controlling measures by forming a queue at the terminus stations with the supervision of RPF staff for orderly entry of passengers in unreserved coaches is being ensured.
Additional RPF personnel have been deployed in 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.
Measures have been taken for frequent and timely announcement of arrival/departure of trains with platform numbers. &ldquoMay I Help You&rdquo booths are kept operational at important stations where RPF Personnel and TTEs are deputed for proper assistance and guidance of the passengers. Medical Teams are available at major stations on call. Ambulance with a paramedical team is also available.
The release also said that a watch on any malpractices &ndash like cornering of seats, over charging and touting activity etc., by the Security and Vigilance Department staff is done and strictly monitored. Instructions for maintaining cleanliness at waiting halls, retiring rooms, passenger amenity areas in particular, and at stations in general, are given by Zonal Headquarters.
Western Railway, which began with 18 trains providing 102 trips, has augmented the offer by five more trains from Bandra Terminus to Bhuj, Okha, Bhavnagar Terminus and Bikaner. However, the trains will run for different periods. Details of running of trains available here.