Ahead of the annual Jagannath Rath Yatra, Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has announced an extensive transportation plan to facilitate the movement of lakhs of devotees travelling to Puri. The minister said Indian Railways will operate more than 300 special trains during the festival, in addition to the over 800 regular train services already running on the network.
Addressing the media in New Delhi, Vaishnaw said the Railways is making comprehensive preparations to ensure that pilgrims experience safe, convenient and hassle-free travel during one of the country's largest religious gatherings. He added that he would personally review the arrangements ahead of the festival to monitor operational readiness and ensure all departments are fully prepared.
One of the major highlights of the preparations is the enhancement of passenger management facilities at Puri Railway Station, which witnesses a massive influx of visitors during the Rath Yatra. According to the minister, a temporary holding and accommodation facility will be created to handle around 30,000 passengers, helping regulate crowds and improve the overall travel experience.
The Railways has been coordinating with local authorities and other agencies to strengthen crowd management, station infrastructure and train operations during the festival period. Special attention is also being given to passenger safety, information dissemination and efficient boarding arrangements.
Vaishnaw said the deployment of special trains reflects the government's commitment to meeting the increased travel demand during major religious events. The additional services are expected to provide better connectivity from different parts of the country to Odisha, reducing congestion on regular routes.
The Jagannath Rath Yatra, held annually in Puri, attracts millions of devotees from across India and abroad. During the festival, the deities Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra are taken out in grand chariots from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, making it one of the most significant religious processions in the country.
Apart from the Rath Yatra, the Railways is also preparing for the festive rush in southern India. Vaishnaw announced that more than 100 special trains will be operated during the Onam festival to cater to the sharp rise in passenger traffic. The additional services are expected to improve connectivity and ease travel for people returning to their hometowns during the celebrations.
With special train operations, enhanced station facilities and continuous monitoring of arrangements, Indian Railways aims to ensure smooth transportation for millions of passengers during both the Jagannath Rath Yatra and the Onam festival season.
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