According to a statement from the Ministry of Railways, 138 special trains have been scheduled, encompassing 650 trips that have already been proposed and sanctioned. So far, 244 of these trips have been officially announced. The ministry further noted that special train operations have been coordinated across nine railway zones in preparation for increased passenger traffic.
Western Railway has been assigned the largest portion, operating 26 special trains that account for 226 approved trips, including 72 that have already been publicized. Central Railway will launch 18 special trains with 118 approved trips, of which 76 are currently available for passengers.
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South Central Railway has scheduled 26 trains for 34 approved trips, with all 26 trips notified to date. South East Central Railway will run 12 trains across 82 approved trips, including 24 that have been announced. South Western Railway has organized 20 trains with 42 approved trips, 28 of which are already notified.
In the northern and north-western regions, North Western Railway will operate 14 trains for 72 approved trips, with six announced so far, while Northern Railway has scheduled 18 trains, covering 66 approved trips, eight of which have been declared.
Meanwhile, North Eastern Railway has proposed two special trains for six approved trips, though none have yet been notified. Northeast Frontier Railway has planned two trains, with four approved trips—all of which have already been announced.
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Railway officials are hopeful that the additional services will offer much-needed relief during this busy travel period, enabling passengers to reach their destinations more comfortably during the festive holidays.
On another note, Western Railway has also launched its first digital lounge and co-working space, which recently began operations at Mumbai Central railway station, officials mentioned on December 17.
The digital lounge, covering an area of 1,712 square feet, will feature comfortable seating, modular workstations, dedicated conference and meeting rooms, and adaptable spaces for video conferencing for passengers, they stated.
“The digital lounge is designed to serve business travelers, professionals, and remote workers, addressing the evolving needs of today’s passengers,” stated Vineet Abhishek, chief public relations officer of the Western Railway.
Situated in the main line concourse of Mumbai Central station, the digital lounge is projected to generate approximately Rs 3.20 crore in revenue over a five-year span, contributing to initiatives aimed at increasing non-fare revenue, officials indicated.
