Indian Railways gears up for Holi 2026 with a major boost: 21 new special trains aimed at Bihar’s homecoming crowds. This strategic rollout from Patna and surrounding stations targets festival travelers from across India, mitigating the usual chaos of packed trains and unconfirmed tickets.
The backbone of India’s festive migration, rail travel sees exponential demand during Holi. Workers from metros and distant states flock back, prioritizing trains for their reliability. To preempt shortages, Railways introduces these timed specials, running through March and early April.
Detailed itineraries include bi-directional Puri-Patna services weekly, Gondia shuttles mid-March, daily Delhi-Patna runs, multiple Charlapalli frequencies, and Sheikhpura-Delhi links. Specifics: 08439/08440 Puri-Patna weekends; 08861/08862 Gondia Mar 2-3; 03293/03294 Delhi daily mid-March; 03253 Patna-Charlapalli Mon/Wed; 03254/03255 returns Wed/Fri; 02397/02398 Sheikhpura-Anand Vihar Sun/Mon.
Ensuring seamless journeys, Danapur division stations like Buxar, Ara, Patna, and Jhajha will have bolstered infrastructure. Senior DCM Abhinav Siddharth confirmed directives to RPF, checking teams, and supervisors for top-notch facilitation.
This fleet not only decongests regular services but enhances safety and punctuality. As Bihar prepares for Holi’s revelry, these trains guarantee timely arrivals for thandai, colors, and family feasts. Monitor IRCTC for bookings and updates.