Mumbai:8th Nov.2024
To facilitate the smooth travel experience for passengers returning from the Chhath Puja and Diwali holidays, Western Railway has taken several key measures to assist passengers returning from their hometowns. Numerous Holiday Special trains will be run to destinations on Western Railway for passengers. The additional services will ensure that passengers can conveniently travel to and from major hubs across the region. General Manager of Western Railway, Shri Ashok Kumar Misra has directed all Divisions of WR to take maximum initiative in providing assistance to passengers.
According to a press release issued by Shri Vineet Abhishek, Chief Public Relations Officer of Western Railway, to manage the expected high volume of travelers, Divisions across WR are implementing extensive measures to prevent overcrowding on platforms, foot over bridges (FOBs), and surrounding areas. Each Division has been directed to deploy sufficient Commercial and Railway Protection Force (RPF) staff to ensure safe and organized passenger movement throughout the stations. Ticket Checking staff will be deployed round-the-clock at all entry/exit points of all prominent stations. All RPF post in-charge have been alerted to maintain platform visibility in coordination with GRP to clear return rush. Regular announcements will be made to ensure clearance of returning passengers. RPF escort party has been briefed to ensure there is no crowding in reserved coaches. Close monitoring of CCTV surveillance will ensure proper crowd management at station and station premises.
Shri Vineet further added that at Bandra Terminus, Udhna and Surat stations, holding areas have been created to assist passengers. 50 Licensed Sahayak have been deployed at Udhna station for the convenience of returning passengers. Informative banners/standees, signage are on display at prominent places. Additional Ticket Windows have been opened. A systematic queuing system has been planned for autos and taxis at stations. Senior Officers of railways are deployed for continuous monitoring and management of crowd.
Western Railway will closely monitor passenger traffic at major stations. Updates will be shared with Control Office for timely coordination and assessment. This initiative will help Western Railway ensure a seamless experience for all travelers, contributing to safe, timely, and comfortable journeys for passengers returning home or visiting loved ones after the holiday celebrations.