Indian Railways is making extensive arrangements for the millions of passengers traveling home during the festive season of Durga Puja, Diwali, and Chhath. Between October 1 and November 30, 2026, the Railways is operating 8,454 special festive train trips, alongside 3.4 lakh regular train trips. A record number of special trains are being run to destinations in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Delhi. Furthermore, 412 additional coaches have been deployed to manage passenger crowds and increase seat availability.

According to the Ministry of Railways, a record 3.4 lakh regular train trips are being operated during the two months from October 1 to November 30, 2026—an increase of 16,000 trips compared to the previous year. Additionally, 8,454 special train trips have been scheduled to meet the surge in passenger demand.

Highest number of trains for Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal
Since routes heading toward Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal experience the heaviest rush during the festive season, the Railways has placed a special focus on these states. For the major festivals of Chhath and Diwali, the highest number of special train trips—2,057—are being operated for Bihar, supplemented by over 31,000 regular train trips.

For Uttar Pradesh, 1,056 special train trips and more than 37,000 regular train trips have been planned. To accommodate passengers traveling from the national capital, Delhi, toward Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, 975 special train trips are being operated from Delhi. Additionally, 836 special train trips have been scheduled for Maharashtra, and 464 for West Bengal.

49 Special Trains for Eastern India During Durga Puja
To manage the heavy passenger rush during Durga Puja, the Railways has planned to operate 49 special trains to West Bengal and surrounding regions between October 13 and October 20, 2026. Key connecting stations for these trains include Howrah, Kolkata, Sealdah, Santragachi, Shalimar, Malda Town, Asansol, and New Jalpaiguri. Of these 49 trains, 27 are being operated by the Northern Railway, 14 by the Southern Railway, and 8 by the Western Railway zones.

412 Additional Coaches Added to Regular Trains
In addition to the special trains, the Railways has increased the number of coaches on regular trains to help reduce waiting lists. Compared to last year, 412 permanent additional coaches have been added this time. Furthermore, 75 general-class coaches have been specifically included for the convenience of regular passengers and those traveling without reservations. The Railways has clarified that if passenger demand increases further, additional trains may be operated on a real-time basis.

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