Thiruvananthapuram: In view of the increased demand for travel during the Deepavali season, Southern Railway has announced 272 services of 58 special trains across high demand sectors to ensure convenient travel for passengers travelling. With a focus on ensuring smooth and hassle-free journeys, several initiatives have been taken by the railway to cater to passenger needs, especially within the Thiruvananthapuram Division.
In Thiruvananthapuram Division, special trains have been arranged on high-demand routes to facilitate the travel surge. These include Thiruvananthapuram North – H. Nizamuddin – Thiruvananthapuram North, Thiruvananthapuram North – SMVT , Bengaluru – Thiruvananthapuram North, Kottayam – MGR Chennai Central – Kottayam, Yesvantpur – Kottayam – Yesvantpur
These services have been strategically planned to manage passenger volume in both long distance and intra-state travel routes, enhancing connectivity.
Additional Measures to Address Passenger Demand in Thiruvananthapuram Division:
Coach Augmentation: To alleviate waiting lists and provide greater capacity, Southern Railway has augmented additional coaches on 10 pairs of trains, specifically catering to the increased demand within Thiruvananthapuram Division.
Intensive Ticket Checking and Crowd Management: Extra ticket-checking staff are being deployed at major stations to manage crowds effectively. .
Nationwide Connectivity with Deepavali Special Trains in Southern Railway
The special trains cover prominent routes connecting major sectors such as Chennai – Madurai – Tirunelveli – Kanyakumari, Chennai – Kottayam, and Kochuveli to popular destinations including Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi. These services extend nationwide, linking Southern Railway destinations with places like Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh), Santragachi and Shalimar (West Bengal), Ambala Cantt (Haryana), Barauni and Dhanbad (Bihar).
Safety and Crowd Control Arrangements
The punctuality of Deepavali special trains is under close monitoring to ensure timely arrivals. Additionally, special arrangements to manage large crowds have been implemented, including:
Deployment of GRP and RPF Personnel: Government Railway Police (GRP) and Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel have been strategically stationed at foot-over bridges and key locations to ensure orderly movement and prevent stampede-like situations during peak hours. CCTV Control Rooms are also actively monitoring crowded areas, providing real-time assistance.
Queue System for General Coaches: Queue systems have been introduced at originating stations and major stations enroute to streamline the boarding process and improve passenger convenience.
Passengers are encouraged to book tickets in advance to avoid last-minute rush and ensure a comfortable journey. Detailed schedules, routes, and timings of all Diwali special trains are available on the official Southern Railway website and IRCTC portals.
Southern Railway remains committed to offering a safe and convenient travel experience this Deepavali season and appreciates passengers’ cooperation in following travel guidelines for a seamless journey.