New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): In response to rising travel pressures caused by IndiGo’s ongoing operational setbacks, Northern Railway has announced the operation of 13 special trains to help stranded and festive travellers across the country. These services will run between December 6 and 12, 2025, connecting key destinations across northern, eastern, and western India.
The special trains aim to provide passengers with alternatives on routes heavily affected by high demand and flight cancellations, particularly in cities where air travel has been disrupted.
Special Services Across Major Routes
Some of the key special trains include:
- Gorakhpur–Anand Vihar Terminal Special (05591/05592): Two trips each way on December 7–9
- Vande Bharat Reserved Express (02439/02440): New Delhi–Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan–New Delhi on December 6
- New Delhi–Mumbai Central Reserved Superfast Special (04002/04001): Operating December 6 and 7
- Hazrat Nizamuddin–Thiruvananthapuram Central Reserved Superfast Special (04080): One-way on December 6
Eastern and northern corridors will also see enhanced connectivity with:
- New Delhi–Howrah Special (04460/04459): December 6 and 8
- Delhi Sarai Rohilla–Sabarmati Special (04062/04061): December 6 and 7
- Patna–Anand Vihar Terminal Specials (02309/02310 and 02395/02396): Multiple trips between December 6 and 9
- Darbhanga–Anand Vihar Terminal Special (05563/05564): December 7 and 9
For western India, travellers can avail:
- Mumbai Central–Shakur Basti Superfast Special (09003/09004): December 8–11
- Sabarmati BG–Delhi Junction Superfast Special (09497/09498): December 8–11
Passengers Urged to Stay Updated
Northern Railway has advised all passengers to check the National Train Enquiry System (NTES) or call 139 for real-time updates, including train schedules and seat availability. With IndiGo facing a backlog of cancelled and delayed flights, these rail services are expected to offer a reliable alternative for stranded travellers.
Officials noted that the new trains have been introduced keeping in mind both the festive travel rush and the ongoing airline disruptions. “These special services are designed to ensure smooth travel for passengers who have been affected by flight cancellations,” said a Northern Railway spokesperson.
As flight disruptions continue at major airports, the special trains are likely to see heavy bookings, particularly on routes connecting Delhi with Patna, Gorakhpur, Howrah, and western hubs like Mumbai and Sabarmati.
