Zone-Wise Train Allocation
The Central Railway will operate the largest share with 296 services, reflecting the heavy festive demand in Maharashtra and the Konkan belt. The Western Railway will run 56 trips, Konkan Railway (KRCL) will manage 6 trips, and the South Western Railway will provide 22 trips.
These trains are expected to significantly ease congestion and offer affordable, reliable travel options to lakhs of devotees heading home or to pilgrimage destinations during Ganpati festivities.
For passengers traveling along the Konkan Railway route, halts have been carefully planned to cover major and smaller stations. These include Kolad, Mangaon, Chiplun, Ratnagiri, Kankavali, Sawantwadi Road, Thivim, Karmali, Madgaon, Karwar, Kumta, Udupi, and Surathkal among others.
The extended list of halts ensures that passengers from smaller towns and villages will also benefit from direct connectivity, reducing reliance on road transport and private vehicles.
Focus on Passenger Convenience
Indian Railways has assured that the special services will be safe, punctual, and comfortable. The IRCTC website, RailOne mobile app, and computerized PRS counters have published the detailed schedule for easy booking and reference.
A senior railway official stated that the initiative reflects the Railways’ ongoing commitment to serve the people during festivals when demand spikes. “Our focus is on ensuring that no devotee is left stranded during Ganesh Chaturthi travel rush,” he said.
Boost to Regional Connectivity
The additional trips are expected to provide a significant boost to tourism and economic activity in Maharashtra and the Konkan region. Local businesses, including hotels, transport providers, and markets, will benefit from the surge of visitors traveling home or attending religious festivities.
Railway authorities also noted that introducing record-high Ganpati Specials not only strengthens passenger convenience but also supports regional development by connecting remote areas more efficiently.