With the onset of the Navratri and Dussehra festive season, a massive wave of travelers has flooded the railway and bus stations in Jaipur. Jaipur Junction, in particular, is witnessing a continuous influx of people heading back to their hometowns over the extended weekend and holidays. The majority of travelers crowding the station during this festive period belong to Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal, as they travel home to celebrate Durga Puja and Dussehra. To accommodate the rapidly growing numbers of passengers at the railway station, the authorities have initiated the operation of several special trains.
Ground Assessment of Passenger Crowds and Arrangements
The situation at Jaipur Junction reflects a heavy turnout of travelers throughout the day. Passengers note that the railways have made commendable arrangements ahead of the festive rush this time. Many report that trains are available and their tickets are confirmed, with services arriving at Jaipur Junction largely on schedule. While festive periods historically witness immense chaos at transit hubs, the current management has kept operations relatively smooth, easing travel for families.
The Burden on Bus Stations and Fare Realities
Interactions with travelers at the ticketing counters reveal that passengers heading to Bihar and Bengal form the largest group currently passing through Jaipur. Every year during this festive window, the traveler count originating from Jaipur to Bihar, Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh remains extremely high. Whenever passengers fail to secure confirmed tickets or face cancellations, they are often forced to rely on bus services. During such peak festive times, bus travelers frequently face arbitrary and inflated fare demands.
Travelers point out that passenger numbers at Jaipur Junction have escalated significantly over the past two days, a trend expected to persist right up to Diwali. Consequently, the railways organize special trains every year for migrant populations traveling to eastern states like Bihar and Bengal. Preparations are actively underway this year as well to operate special trains through Diwali so that citizens can reach their homes without distress. This vibrant passenger activity at the railway station is also providing a strong boost to the livelihoods of local vendors and businesses.
Fifty Special Trains and Extra Coaches Deployed
To ease the festive overcrowding and provide passengers with a smooth travel experience, the railways have decided to attach 135 extra coaches of various categories across 48 trains. This move aims to reduce long waiting lists and improve seat availability for travelers during the holidays. These 48 trains feature third AC, sleeper, and general class coaches, encompassing services originating from or passing through Jaipur.
In addition to Jaipur Junction, several special trains are being operated from alternative stations across the city, including Khatipura, Durgapura, and Gandhi Nagar. For instance, a weekly special train to Kolkata is scheduled to operate from the Khatipura station. Railway authorities continue to make comprehensive preparations to manage the heavy passenger load effectively throughout the festive season.
