In an effort to facilitate seamless travel for thousands of devotees arriving for the annual Navratri festivities, railway authorities have introduced temporary halts for four key long-distance express trains at Indragarh Sumerganj Mandi station under the Kota division. This operational arrangement remains in effect for 16 days, spanning from October 8, 2026, through October 23, 2026, catering specifically to the massive influx of pilgrims heading to the renowned Indragarh temple.
Surging Pilgrim Numbers and Road Congestion
The annual Sharadiya Navratri fair in Indragarh draws massive crowds from across Rajasthan and neighboring regions. During the festive period, road transport experiences severe pressure, with private vehicles and state buses running over capacity, often causing extensive congestion. As a result, passenger preference heavily tilts toward rail travel for a safe and dependable transit option. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Saurabh Jain detailed the decision, stating that the primary goal behind granting these temporary stoppages is to manage the festive rush systematically and ensure smooth passenger circulation at the station.
Selected Express Services on Busy Corridors
The temporary halts cover two pairs of prominent long-distance express trains operating between Mumbai and Jaipur, as well as Bandra Terminus and Barauni. Stopping both up and down directions directly at Indragarh Sumerganj Mandi eliminates the need for devotees to disembark at distant junctions and hire additional road transport to reach the temple grounds.
Schedule for Mumbai Central and Jaipur Express
Train number 12955 Mumbai Central to Jaipur Express, commencing journeys from its originating station between October 7 and October 22, arrives at Indragarh Sumerganj Mandi at 08:39 hours the following morning. Following a one-minute operational stop, it departs at 08:40 hours toward its destination.
For the return direction, train number 12956 Jaipur to Mumbai Central Express, running from its originating terminal from October 8 to October 23, reaches Indragarh Sumerganj Mandi at 16:27 hours. The service pauses for one minute before continuing its journey at 16:28 hours.
Timetable for Awadh Express Services
Catering to travelers along the eastern and western corridors, train number 19037 Bandra Terminus to Barauni Awadh Express, departing from source between October 7 and October 22, arrives at Indragarh Sumerganj Mandi at 13:35 hours. It observes a two-minute stoppage and departs at 13:37 hours.
In the reverse direction, train number 19038 Barauni to Bandra Terminus Awadh Express, leaving its originating point from October 7 to October 22, reaches Indragarh Sumerganj Mandi at 11:08 hours. It halts for two minutes before resuming its journey at 11:10 hours.
Passenger Advisory and Helpline Assistance
Railway officials have urged all passengers and pilgrims to check running status and verified schedules before embarking on their journey. Travelers can monitor train operations through the National Train Enquiry System official platform or dial the railway helpline service at 139 for real-time updates. This temporary intervention offers substantial relief to thousands of visiting families seeking reliable transit during the festive peak.
