The railway administration has launched a special transport arrangement for devotees and passengers traveling to attend the Navratri mela organized in Janjgir-Naila. To ensure smooth movement of travelers during the festive period, a special mela train will operate between Bilaspur and Champa from October 17 to October 20, 2026. This dedicated train service is designed to handle the heavy rush of pilgrims and ease transportation across the route.
Key stations and operational frequency
The mela special train will run between Bilaspur, Jairamnagar, Akaltara, Janjgir-Naila, and Champa. According to the scheduled timetable, the train will complete two round trips in both directions every day. This additional rail facility aims to provide seamless connectivity and extra travel convenience for everyone participating in the Navratri celebrations.
First trip schedule from Bilaspur to Champa
The first mela special train heading from Bilaspur toward Champa will depart at 5:45 PM. It is scheduled to arrive at Jairamnagar at 6:05 PM and leave after a two-minute halt at 6:07 PM. The train will subsequently reach Akaltara at 6:23 PM, departing at 6:25 PM. Continuing its journey, it will arrive at Janjgir-Naila at 6:45 PM, halt for five minutes to depart at 6:50 PM, and finally reach Champa station at 7:10 PM.
Return schedule of the first trip from Champa to Bilaspur
For the return journey, the first trip from Champa to Bilaspur will depart at 7:30 PM. It will reach Janjgir-Naila at 7:45 PM and leave at 7:50 PM after a brief halt. Afterward, it will arrive at Akaltara at 8:08 PM, departing at 8:10 PM. The train is scheduled to reach Jairamnagar at 8:25 PM, leaving at 8:27 PM, and finally arriving at Bilaspur station at 8:50 PM.
Night schedule for the second trip
To accommodate late-evening travelers, the railway has scheduled a second trip during the night. The train from Bilaspur to Champa for the second trip will depart at 9:05 PM. It will reach Jairamnagar at 9:25 PM, Akaltara at 9:42 PM, and Janjgir-Naila at 9:58 PM. Following scheduled halts, the train will reach Champa station at 10:15 PM.
Late-night return from Champa to Bilaspur
The second trip returning from Champa to Bilaspur will depart at 10:30 PM. It will reach Janjgir-Naila at 10:45 PM and depart at 10:50 PM. The train will then reach Akaltara at 11:08 PM and Jairamnagar at 11:25 PM. Departing from Jairamnagar at 11:27 PM, the train will complete its journey upon arriving at Bilaspur station at 11:50 PM.
Dates of operation and passenger advisory
According to the railway administration, the mela special train will operate for four days from October 17 to October 20, 2026, running two trips in each direction daily. The railway has urged passengers to check the precise timing and operational details in advance to make the most of this special holiday train service.
