Indian Railways To Run 380 Special Trains For Ganesh Festival Devotees

Extra Services On Konkan, Central, Western And Southern Routes To Ease Travel Rush

Indian Railways has announced 380 special train services during this year’s Ganesh Chaturthi festival, aimed at ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey for lakhs of devotees and passengers traveling to Maharashtra and Konkan regions.

The festive rush, particularly along the Konkan coast, has traditionally created heavy demand for train services. To address this, the Central Railway will operate 296 services, Western Railway 56, Konkan Railway 6, and Southern Railway 22. These trains, running between August 11 and September 6, are designed to facilitate both long-distance travelers and families heading back to their native villages for the 10-day celebration.

Routes And Key Stops

The special services will cover major routes including Mumbai, Pune, Thane, Panvel, Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Sawantwadi, Goa, Kolhapur, Solapur, Sangli, Nanded, and Aurangabad. Extra halts have also been added at smaller towns such as Rajapur, Kankavli, Malvan, Devgad, Tarkarli, Nipani Road, and Vengurla, allowing easier access for rural devotees.

Officials said bookings can be made through IRCTC’s website, the Railways’ UTS mobile app, and computerized reservation counters across the country. With more than 1,000 coaches added, the Railways has sought to prevent last-minute overcrowding.

Cultural And Economic Impact

The Ganesh festival is not just Maharashtra’s most celebrated religious occasion but also a period of economic activity, as markets in Konkan see a surge in demand for food, flowers, decorations, and cultural programs. By expanding services, the Railways is expected to boost local trade while making sure devotees reach their hometowns safely and on time.

Looking Ahead

Railway authorities have assured continuous monitoring of passenger loads and may consider adding more services if the demand exceeds expectations. The move has been widely welcomed by commuters, with many noting that early announcements have allowed families to plan their travel better.

With Ganesh Chaturthi beginning on August 27 and running until September 6, the special train services will remain a crucial support for the state’s cultural and social mobility during the festive period.