Mumbai: There is good news for travelers going to Konkan during the Holi and Shimga festivals. As every year, this year too, a large number of Mumbaikars travel to their hometowns by train. Considering the increasing crowd, Central Railway has decided to run a total of 186 special trains across the country, including Konkan. This will prevent major inconvenience for passengers and is expected to reduce the rush to get tickets.
According to the railway administration, 94 of these trains will be operated as Holi specials, while the remaining 94 trains will be in regular special services. These trains will run on major routes such as Mumbai–Nagpur, Mumbai–Sawantwadi Road, and Pune–Nagpur. Additionally, special trains have been arranged for passengers traveling to North India, including destinations like Banaras, Gorakhpur, Samastipur, and Danapur.
According to Konkan Railway's Public Relations Officer Sunil Narkar, special trains will run on specific dates between Mumbai–Sawantwadi Road during the months of February and March. These trains will be operated twice a week, and passengers are advised to plan their travel accordingly.
For the festivals of Holi and Shimga, a large number of people return to Konkan. As a result, there is a huge crowd in regular trains. Many times the waiting list becomes very long and getting a confirmed ticket is difficult. Against this backdrop, the announcement of special trains is considered a big relief for passengers.
The railway administration has appealed to start ticket booking from February 18. Passengers are advised to check the schedule from the official website or reservation center and reserve tickets. As it is difficult to get tickets at the last moment during the festive season, it is advised to make reservations as soon as possible.
These special trains will facilitate passengers traveling to Konkan, Vidarbha, and North India. The railway administration has stated that special care has been taken for passenger safety with additional security personnel, cleanliness arrangements, and technical inspections.
During the festive season, train travel is emotionally significant for many. Passengers traveling to their villages, families, and to celebrate traditional festivals will greatly benefit from these special trains. Therefore, this year's Holi and Shimga are expected to be celebrated with more joy.