Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw Reviews Festive Season Passenger Movement at Railway Board War Room

New Delhi, October 23, 2025: Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & IT,  Ashwini Vaishnaw, today reviewed passenger movement during the festive season at the Railway Board War Room in New Delhi. The Minister highlighted the use of real-time monitoring systems and mini control rooms at major stations, enabling coordination across the country regarding train operations, passenger surges, and additional train requirements.

 Vaishnaw stated that holding and waiting areas at stations are ensuring systematic entry of passengers. Currently, around 10,700 reserved and 3,000 unreserved trains have been deployed to manage the festive rush. Data from the past two years is being analyzed to determine the exact number of special trains required for each destination. The first peak in passenger movement was observed between October 17–20, and the second peak is expected between October 22–24.

A permanent holding area at New Delhi station now accommodates over 7,000 passengers and includes 150 toilets each for men and women, ticket counters, automatic vending machines, and free RO water.

 Ravneet Singh Bittu, Minister of State for Railways and Food Processing Industries, visited Ambala Cantt station to inspect the special arrangements by Indian Railways for the festive season.

To manage Chhath festival travel, 1,205 special trains will operate over the next four days. In October and November, 2,220 special trains have been scheduled for Bihar. Passenger statistics indicate a significant rise in travel: on October 21, 2025, 1,69,986 unreserved passengers boarded from six major Delhi stations, a 5.62% increase over the same period last year. On October 22, 1,71,753 passengers traveled, up 7.01% year-on-year.

Passengers have praised cleanliness, comfort, and upgraded facilities on festive special trains. Commuters traveling on the Vikramshila Express from Anand Vihar to Bhagalpur highlighted smooth operations and well-maintained stations. Shambhavi Bhardwaj, traveling from New Delhi to Sonpur, appreciated the arrangements and facilities available.

Cleanliness at stations such as Hajipur (Sonpur Division) has impressed both domestic and international passengers. Facilities at Yatri Suvidha Kendra, New Delhi Railway Station have also received positive feedback.Indian Railways staff provided prompt assistance to passengers in need, including a woman in labor at New Delhi station, who received first aid and was safely escorted to a hospital. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to timely medical support and passenger safety during peak travel periods.

With its vast network, dedicated workforce, and passenger-centric approach, Indian Railways continues to ensure smooth, safe, and comfortable travel during the Chhath festival, combining operational efficiency with enhanced passenger services.