PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, March 6: In a relief for passengers travelling after the Holi festival, the South Eastern Railway (SER) has decided to attach additional coaches to 11 long-distance trains passing through the Chakradharpur, Ranchi and Kharagpur railway divisions to manage the expected post-Holi passenger rush.
Railway officials said the arrangement will remain in force from March 7 to March 13, a period that usually witnesses heavy travel as people return to their workplaces after celebrating Holi in their hometowns.
Sleeper and general coaches to boost capacity
During this period, selected trains will be provided with extra sleeper class and general coaches to increase seating capacity and accommodate the surge in passengers.
The post-Holi travel period traditionally records a sharp spike in train bookings as thousands of migrant workers, students and professionals begin their return journey to major cities.
Key railway stations, including Tatanagar, Chakradharpur, Ranchi and Kharagpur, often experience heavy crowds and long waiting lists during this time.
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Move aimed at reducing waiting lists
A railway official said the decision to add extra coaches was taken to improve passenger convenience and reduce congestion.
“Adding extra coaches will help ease overcrowding and improve the chances of wait-listed tickets getting confirmed,” the official said.
Passengers welcome the move
Passengers welcomed the decision, saying it would bring much-needed relief during the festive rush.
“Getting a confirmed ticket after Holi is always difficult because of the heavy rush. Additional coaches will definitely help travellers like us,” said Ravi Kumar, a passenger waiting at Tatanagar railway station.
Another traveller, Sanjay Singh, who plans to return to Delhi after Holi, said overcrowding is common every year.
“Trains are usually packed during this time. If more coaches are added, it will make the journey much more comfortable,” he said.
Railway authorities have also advised passengers to check train status, coach positions and ticket confirmation updates online or at railway stations before starting their journey.