To facilitate smooth travel for devotees on the final day of Chhath Puja, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced early operations across its entire network. On Monday, 16 November 2026, train services on all Delhi Metro lines will commence at 4:30 AM instead of the usual 6:00 AM start time. This 90-minute advance opening is intended to assist thousands of worshippers heading to various riverbanks and water bodies across the National Capital Region during the early morning hours for the 'Usha Arghya' ritual.
15-Minute Train Frequency in Early Hours
According to official details released by the transit authority, the first metro trains will depart from all terminal stations across every corridor at 4:30 AM. From the start of operations until the commencement of regular scheduled services, trains on all lines will operate at a frequency of 15 minutes. Once the regular timetable takes effect later in the morning, operations will return to standard schedule frequencies. The DMRC publicly confirmed these special operational arrangements in updates shared on X.
Major Relief for Commuters and Worshippers
The festival of Chhath creates immense traffic movement across Delhi and adjoining suburban cities. Huge gatherings of devotees assemble along the Yamuna riverbanks, designated lakes, and specially constructed artificial ponds. Given the early hour and potential congestion on roads, early metro services provide a dependable, hassle-free alternative for those relying on public transport. Devotees carrying ceremonial baskets and offerings can reach their destination ghats comfortably without facing early morning vehicular delays.
Final Offering to the Rising Sun
The four-day Chhath festival revolves around sun worship, featuring two key offerings: the first to the setting sun ('Sandhya Arghya') and the second to the rising sun ('Usha Arghya'). On Monday morning, 16 November 2026, devotees will assemble at designated water bodies to perform the concluding rituals. Traditional offerings including thekua, fresh seasonal fruits, sugarcane, and sacred items are carefully arranged in woven bamboo baskets (soop and daura). Worshippers offer water and milk to the rising sun, seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and the longevity of family members.
Concluding the 36-Hour Strict Fast
Following the completion of the Usha Arghya ritual, devotees offer prayers to Chhathi Maiya and distribute holy prasad among family and community members. Worshippers will then break their rigorous 36-hour waterless fast (nirjala vrat), a process known as 'paran'. This sacred ritual marks the official conclusion of the four-day Chhath festival across the region.
