Patna/Samastipur: The Railways has announced a temporary suspension of platform ticket sales at 12 stations under the Samastipur Railway Division ahead of Chhath Puja 2026. The restriction will remain in force from November 12 to November 25 as authorities prepare to manage the heavy passenger rush during the festive season.
The decision means that people accompanying passengers to railway stations or arriving to receive them will not be able to purchase platform tickets during this period. Entry to platforms will be restricted to passengers holding valid train journey tickets.
The measure is aimed at reducing unnecessary crowding at stations and ensuring smoother movement of passengers during one of Bihar’s biggest festivals.
Platform Ticket Sales Suspended for 14 Days
According to the Samastipur Railway Division, platform ticket sales will remain suspended at the selected stations for nearly two weeks, from November 12 to 25.
During this period, relatives and family members accompanying passengers will not be permitted to enter platforms using platform tickets. Only those travelling by train with valid tickets will be allowed access.
Railway authorities expect the restriction to help reduce congestion at platforms, foot overbridges and station entry and exit points.
Why Has the Railway Taken This Decision?
Chhath is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in Bihar, drawing thousands of migrant workers and families back to their hometowns from different parts of the country.
Passengers travelling from Delhi, Mumbai, Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat and other states contribute to a significant increase in railway traffic during the festive period. The rush becomes particularly heavy before and after the festival, when people travel home and subsequently return to their workplaces.
Apart from passengers, large numbers of relatives also visit stations to drop off or receive family members. This often leads to overcrowding across platforms and other station facilities.
The temporary suspension of platform ticket sales is intended to control this additional footfall and prioritise the movement and safety of train passengers.
Restriction to Cover NSG-2 and NSG-3 Category Stations
According to R.K. Singh, Media In-charge of the Samastipur Railway Division, the restriction will cover 12 stations classified under two categories in the railway’s revised station categorisation list.
Three stations fall under the NSG-2 category, while nine are classified as NSG-3.
Full List of 12 Bihar Railway Stations
NSG-2 Category Stations:
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Samastipur
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Darbhanga
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Muzaffarpur
NSG-3 Category Stations:
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Saharsa
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Bapudham Motihari
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Jainagar
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Sakri
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Raxaul
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Bettiah
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Madhubani
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Narkatiaganj
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Sitamarhi
What Should Railway Passengers Keep in Mind?
Passengers travelling through these 12 stations during the restricted period should plan their journeys accordingly and reach the station with sufficient time before departure.
Those accompanying passengers should also remember that platform tickets will not be available between November 12 and 25. Entry to the platforms will be limited to people carrying valid train journey tickets.
The railway administration has introduced the measure as part of its efforts to manage the festive rush and reduce congestion at major stations across the Samastipur Division.
