Indian Railways Chhath Puja special trains 2025 to run 1,500 special trains for the next five days to manage the massive rush during Chhath Puja and Diwali, making this the largest festive travel operation in Indian history.
Introduction
As the country enters its most awaited festive season, Indian Railways is once again rising to the challenge of connecting families and communities. From October 1 to November 30, 2025, Indian Railways will operate over 12,000 special trains, bringing unprecedented convenience to travelers during Diwali and Chhath Puja. In just five days surrounding Chhath Puja alone, a stunning 1,500 special trains will be added—averaging 300 specials per day—to handle the heavy surge in passengers from states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi. This year’s operation is a significant step up from last year’s 7,724 festive trains, demonstrating Indian Railways’ unwavering commitment to hassle-free, accessible, and safe travel for every citizen.
Chhath Puja & Festive Rail Rush: Why So Many Special Trains?
Chhath Puja is among the most important festivals in North India, especially for communities in Bihar, UP, and Delhi. Families travel from all corners of India to celebrate this four-day devotion together, creating a rush on all railway corridors. Indian Railways has proactively increased capacity to ensure that this surge doesn’t lead to overcrowded platforms, unreserved passengers, or extended waiting lists.
- 61 Days Festive Window: From Oct 1–Nov 30, more than 12,000 special trains nationwide.
- 1,500 Specials in 5 Days: To match last-minute travel demand before Chhath, with 300 trains daily (well beyond many previous years).
- 11,865 Total Notified Trips: 9,338 reserved and 2,203 unreserved trips for convenience of all passenger classes.
Improved Passenger Facilities This Year
Indian Railways has taken several extra measures to ensure passenger convenience and safety:
- Large Ticket Counters: At major stations like Udhna and Ahmedabad, the number of counters has been increased for faster service.
- Special Holding Areas: Dedicated spaces for waiting passengers help manage crowds and prevent chaos at platform entrances.
- Railway Protection Force (RPF) Team: On-ground security staff are ensuring order, are vigilant about seat allocation, and provide assistance to differently-abled or elderly travelers.
- Cleanliness and Hygiene: Passengers have praised the upgraded standards of hygiene, maintenance, and platform organization, with many reporting an overall superior travel experience this Diwali and Chhath.
Record Ridership Numbers
On October 19, Indian Railways managed over 36,000 passengers at Udhna Station alone, a massive 50% jump over last year’s figures. All passengers boarded trains by 4 pm and reached home in time for festivities—an achievement highlighting the planning, efficiency, and robust systems in place. In the previous five days, more than 1.2 lakh people departed from Udhna, and such stories are being echoed across the country.
Reserved and Unreserved Trains for All Needs
Of the 11,865 notified special train trips this festive season:
- 9,338 are reserved for advance ticketed passengers (guaranteed seats, confirmed travel).
- 2,203 are unreserved for those needing last-minute, spontaneous travel or those unable to book online.
The range of services means every traveler, whether a family making advanced plans or a worker making an urgent trip home, finds a suitable option for their needs.
Smart Travel Initiatives and Digital Advantages
Indian Railways Chhath Puja special trains 2025 Many passengers this year have lauded:
- Online Ticketing with IRCTC’s robust digital platform.
- Improved Queue Management, aided by signage and orderly systems even during festive crowds.
- RPF Support for women, the elderly, physically challenged travelers, and children.
- Real-Time Updates on special trains, re-routes, and platform assignments via Indian Railways official and website.
Real Passenger Feedback
Here’s what some travelers are saying:
- “Clean coaches, courteous staff, and prompt service made my festive journey smooth.” – Passenger from Bengaluru to Kolkata.
- “The new ticket counters, clean stations, and organized platforms at Jabalpur made a real difference,” said a frequent traveler.
- “Online ticketing and the increase in unreserved seats let me reach my village just in time for the ritual,” shared Madan Kumar Yadav.
- “RPF’s vigilance and help with boarding for my elderly father were deeply appreciated,” reported a passenger at Ahmedabad.
Indian Railways Chhath Puja special trains 2025 Focus on Safety and Crowd Management
Indian Railways has coordinated:
- Additional holding zones at major departure stations.
- Multiple RPF teams for station security and medical emergencies.
- Constant cleaning cycles for platforms and coaches.
- Fast information flow through digital displays and on-ground staff.
Chhath Puja: The Festival and the Journey
Chhath Puja is a four-day festival honoring the Sun God, celebrated with devotion and family gatherings—most vibrantly in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi. Indian Railways, with these special trains, is not just managing logistics but supporting tradition and community, ensuring people can reunite, perform rituals, and celebrate with loved ones.
How to Book your Chhath Puja Special Train
Booking your Indian Railways Chhath Puja special trains is simple and convenient if you follow the latest official guidelines. Passengers can use the IRCTC website with Indian Railways providing increased options and support for families traveling home to celebrate.
- Use the IRCTC website (irctc.co.in) for reserved train bookings.
- Visit local reservation counters (now expanded in major cities).
- For unreserved trains, purchase tickets at the departing station.
- Plan early: more special trains mean more options, but advance booking ensures confirmation.
Essential Travel Tips for Chhath Puja and Diwali 2025
Plan ahead for Indian Railways Chhath Puja special train and Diwali journeys by checking train schedules, booking tickets early, and carrying valid ID during travel. These essential travel tips help passengers enjoy a safe, comfortable, and stress-free festive experience, whether using reserved or unreserved trains provided by Indian Railways Chhath Puja special train and Diwali 2025.
- Check Train Updates: Indian Railways posts regular schedule notifications—refer to railway enquiry portals or official news releases.
- Arrive Early: Higher footfall means more time for security checks and boarding.
- Use Official IRCTC and Indian Railways for e-tickets and live updates.
- Travel Light: More crowd means less space—carry only essentials.
- Contact RPF or station staff for any assistance (especially with elderly, children, or differently-abled family members).
For more IRCTC festival booking updates, read our Indian Railways Diwali Ticket Booking Guide.