The Railway Ministry on Friday (April 19) announced plans to significantly increase train services by 43% this summer compared to last year in order to accommodate more passengers traveling to various destinations.
According to a press release issued by the Railway Ministry, “To ensure the convenience of passengers and manage the anticipated surge in travel demand during summers, the Indian Railways is operating a record-breaking 9, 111 trips during the summer season.”
This marks a substantial rise from the 6,369 trips offered during the summer of 2023, reflecting an increase of 2,742 trips, highlighting the Indian Railways’ commitment to meeting passenger needs effectively.
Special trains to connect key destination
As per the ministry’s statement, the additional train services have been carefully planned to connect key destinations across the country, ensuring seamless travel on major railway routes.
Among the 9,111 train trips, the Western Railway will operate the highest number with 1,878 trips, followed by the North Western Railway with 1,623 trips. Other significant contributors include the South Central Railway (1,012 trips) and the East Central Railway (1,003).
“All zonal railways spread across India have geared up to operate these additional trips catering to the summer travel rush from states like Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Odisha, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Delhi,” the Railway Ministry said.
Indian Railways adjusting services as per passenger demands
Before deciding to increase train services, the ministry considers inputs from various communication channels, including media reports, social media platforms, and the Railway Integrated helpline number 139. Additionally, details of waitlisted passengers in the Passenger Reservation System (PRS) are assessed to gauge the demand on specific routes.
“Based on this requirement, the number of trains and number of trips are augmented. Neither the number of trains nor the number of trips run by additional train(s) is static for the entire season,” the ministry said. It added that planning and running of additional trains is a continuous process.
Availability of drinking water at railway stations
Furthermore, the ministry has instructed Zonal Railways to ensure the availability of drinking water at railway stations during the summer season. “Elaborate crowd control arrangements are made at all major and important railway stations. Senior officers are stationed at these stations to monitor all the activities to regulate the crowd in a systematic manner,” the ministry said.
“RPF personnel have been deputed at originating stations to ensure queue system for entry in general class coaches. Skilled RPF staffs are deployed in CCTV control room to keep a close watch on the crowded areas and render real time assistance to passengers,” it added.
To prevent stampede-like situations during peak periods, the ministry has directed the deployment of Government Railway Police (GRP) and RPF at foot-over bridges to regulate crowds smoothly.
“Indian Railways remain committed to providing a convenient and comfortable travel experience for all passengers. Passengers can book their ticket in these additional trains through railway ticket counters or IRCTC website/app,” the ministry said.