In anticipation of the massive influx of travelers for Chhath Puja, the East Central Railway (ECR) zone, headquartered in Hajipur, has implemented extensive arrangements across its stations, announced ECR General Manager Chhatrasal Singh on Wednesday. With a significant number of people expected to visit Bihar for the festival, the railways are prioritizing seamless travel and passenger safety to prevent any incidents during this high-traffic period.

To accommodate the surge, the ECR has increased the number of Chhath special trains from 7,500 to 12,000 this year, enabling connectivity to even remote destinations. Singh noted that preparations for arrivals are complete, with additional unannounced trains ready to operate from major terminals for passengers without reservations. The railways are also bracing for the challenging post-festival return rush, with a narrow window for departures, and final arrangements are nearing completion.

To manage the crowds effectively, holding areas at major terminals will be ready by Thursday night, followed by a “dress rehearsal” to test the arrangements. Centralized monitoring from the Patliputra Rail Complex, supported by similar systems in all divisional offices, will ensure smooth traffic flow at stations. These measures aim to streamline operations and enhance passenger experience during the festive period.

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Security has also been bolstered, with additional personnel deployed to ensure safe and smooth travel. “We have firmly resolved to facilitate safe travel during and after Chhath,” Singh emphasized, highlighting the railway staff’s commitment. These comprehensive efforts underscore the ECR’s dedication to managing the Chhath Puja rush efficiently, reinforcing Bihar’s connectivity for the festival.

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