Lucknow. Although the Diwali and Chhath festivals are still about a month away, their impact is already visible on railway bookings. A large number of people are preparing to return home, leading to a sharp rise in the demand for seats on long-distance trains. Many major trains bound for Uttar Pradesh from Delhi and Mumbai are already fully booked.
According to railway reservation data, seats are unavailable on several key trains running from Delhi and Mumbai to Uttar Pradesh between October 20 and November 6. Securing confirmed tickets on these trains has become difficult for passengers. Meanwhile, trains departing from Gorakhpur to various cities are also witnessing heavy passenger traffic between November 8 and November 15.
Every year during the festive season, a large number of people return to their families—who reside in other cities for work or education—for the holidays. The number of travelers surges significantly during major festivals like Diwali and Chhath. Consequently, the pressure on long-distance trains is already mounting.
A vast number of people working in Delhi, Mumbai, Gujarat, Punjab, and other major metropolitan areas return to their villages and hometowns for the festivals. Trains bound for Uttar Pradesh and Bihar see the highest demand. Passengers began booking tickets weeks in advance, resulting in long waiting lists for many trains.
According to railway officials, plans are made to operate special trains to handle the extra passenger rush during the festive season. Additional coaches are also attached as needed to accommodate as many passengers as possible. However, the volume of travelers increases so drastically during the festivals that the pressure on regular trains remains high.
Passenger numbers on trains departing from Gorakhpur are also rising in anticipation of the Chhath festival. Given the special significance of Chhath in the Purvanchal region, a large number of people travel home for the occasion. As a result, major railway stations in Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Lucknow, and surrounding areas experience heavy crowds during the festive period. The Railways is advising passengers to plan their journeys in advance and check ticket availability before setting out. Those planning last-minute travel may face difficulties in securing confirmed tickets.
In anticipation of the surge in ticket demand during the festive season, the railway administration has stepped up its preparations. Special arrangements are being made at stations to manage crowds and ensure passenger convenience. The Railways is also likely to announce special trains on certain routes soon.
Currently, there is a scramble for seats on trains ahead of Diwali and Chhath. Passengers traveling from Delhi and Mumbai to Uttar Pradesh are facing long waits for tickets, while seats on trains departing from Gorakhpur are filling up rapidly. Given the situation, booking tickets well in advance is considered the best option for travelers.
