Chhath Puja Rush: Ticket Sales Rise 30% at Delhi Railway Stations

As the festival of Chhath Puja approaches, Delhi's major railway stations are experiencing a significant surge in passenger traffic. Travelers are flocking to terminals, eager to reach their hometowns to celebrate the occasion with their families. Railway officials have reported that hourly ticket sales at key stations have increased by 25% to 30% amid the ongoing festive rush.

Hourly ticket sales have surged by up to 30% as passengers travel home for Chhath Puja.

Northern Railway has implemented extensive measures to manage the influx. According to Chief Public Relations Officer Himanshu Upadhyay, the average daily footfall at Delhi stations rises from five lakh to eight lakh during this period. To accommodate the demand, the railway has deployed 27 additional east-bound trains on Saturday, with 22 more scheduled for Sunday. The administration is also utilizing AI-enabled CCTV surveillance to monitor crowd density and trigger dispersal mechanisms when sudden surges are detected.

Managing the festive crowds

To streamline the boarding process, dedicated holding areas such as the 'Yatri Suvidha Kendra' have been established at New Delhi and Anand Vihar terminals. These facilities provide essential amenities, including ticket counters, water, and toilets. Additionally, around 400 'Rail Sevaks' have been deployed to guide passengers, while Railway Protection Force personnel presence has been increased by 60%. Personnel are also using handheld ticket vending machines to assist those traveling on unreserved tickets.

Despite these efforts, platforms remain heavily congested. Passengers have reported significant difficulties while attempting to board, with some seen entering trains through windows. While officials have strategically placed east-bound trains on specific platforms to minimize the need for navigating foot overbridges, the sheer volume of travelers continues to challenge existing infrastructure. For many, however, the struggle is a routine part of the festive journey home.

Why it matters

The spike in travel highlights the immense pressure on India's rail network during major cultural festivals. These logistical efforts directly impact millions of migrant workers and families across South Asia who rely on the railway as their primary means of transport to reconnect with their communities during significant holidays.