Suryaa National Desk: The Railway Department has initiated extensive measures to manage passenger crowds and enforce security arrangements during festivals such as Diwali and Chhath Puja. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw conducted surprise inspections at major stations, including Kothagudem, Secunderabad, and New Delhi, to review passenger amenities, security protocols, and crowd control strategies. During these visits, the Minister interacted with passengers regarding the services provided.
The Minister noted that passenger traffic increases significantly across the country during the Durga Puja, Diwali, and Chhath season. In response, the department has deployed special trains and increased the presence of security personnel. To monitor suspicious movements and strengthen security, over 700 advanced artificial intelligence-based cameras have been installed. Officials stated that special holding areas and waiting rooms have been made available to assist passengers in reaching their platforms efficiently.
Records indicate that approximately two crore passengers traveled through major railway stations in Delhi between the first week of October and the beginning of November. Daily passenger traffic, which averages five lakh on normal days, increased to over eight lakh during the festive period. Similar surges in passenger volume were recorded at major railway junctions in Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Surat. The department has also upgraded facilities, including drinking water, sanitation, additional ticketing counters, and luggage screening centers. The Railway Department stated that it will continue to improve services based on passenger feedback.