The Delhi Division of Northern Railway has announced plans to operate 327 special train services in view of the forthcoming festive season. The primary objective of this initiative is to ensure a hassle-free and comfortable travel experience for passengers during the Diwali and Chhat festivals.
Speaking to the press, Sukhvinder Singh, the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of the Delhi Division, expressed the division’s unwavering commitment to providing passengers with seamless and secure travel, addressing their needs while ensuring a joyous and safe journey to their intended destinations.
Northern Railway announces special trains
The festive train services will facilitate the movement of passengers to various locations, connecting vital cities such as Patna, Muzaffarpur, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, and more.
Moreover, Singh detailed the division’s implementation of various crowd management strategies. At terminal stations, Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel will supervise the formation of orderly queues for unreserved coach entry. Additionally, “May I Help You” booths will be operational at significant stations, offering guidance and assistance to travelers.
Mini-control centers set up at major railway stations
In an effort to minimize last-minute platform changes, nominated staff will manage well-equipped mini-control centers at major railway stations like New Delhi, Old Delhi, Anand Vihar Terminal, and Hazrat Nizamuddin. Special Duty Officers will be deployed during peak hours at key stations to ensure efficient operations.
To effectively manage crowds, designated passenger holding areas or pandals will be established at New Delhi and Anand Vihar Terminal. These areas will provide amenities such as covered tentage, lighting, fans, water booths, portable toilet facilities, and entertainment options like TV screens displaying train information and infotainment content.
The DRM also disclosed that all eastbound trains will primarily depart from specific platforms at New Delhi and Anand Vihar Terminal to streamline the process. Additional booking, reservation, and enquiry counters will be opened as needed.
Security heightened
It’s worth noting that, for passenger safety and convenience, additional ticket checking and commercial staff will be deployed, and the movement of parcels will be restricted during peak periods. Civil Defence volunteers and Scout and Guide personnel will offer support, while catering and vending stalls will be strategically positioned to prevent any hindrance to passenger movement.
Railway authorities are bolstering security measures by deploying additional RPF/RPSF personnel, dog squads, baggage scanners, and metal detectors at entry points. The installation of extra CCTV cameras, improved communication tools, and enhanced coordination with law enforcement and emergency services will further strengthen security arrangements.
Two dedicated teams have been established to combat incidents of passenger belongings theft and the illicit black market trade of railway tickets.