Patna: Authorities in Bihar have announced a series of Holi special trains connecting key towns in the state with Delhi and parts of South India, in an effort to manage the annual surge in festive travel. The services, introduced by the East Central Railway, include a direct link between Sheikhpura and Anand Vihar, offering relief to passengers from Nawada and Gaya districts.
Every year, the Holi festival triggers a sharp rise in passenger numbers as migrant workers and students return home. Officials said two pairs of special trains would operate between Delhi and Sitamarhi via Gorakhpur, Narkatiaganj and Raxaul. Train numbers 04010 and 04009 will run on select dates between late February and early March, connecting the capital with north Bihar.
A further pair of services — 04014 and 04013 — will link Anand Vihar Terminal with Laukaha Bazar Junction, strengthening connectivity for travellers heading towards the Indo-Nepal border region. Railway officials said the additional capacity was designed to reduce waiting lists and overcrowding on regular routes.
Passengers on the Gaya–Nawada line will also see improved options. Special train 03697 will operate between Sheikhpura and Anand Vihar on multiple dates in March, with the return service 03698 running on alternate days. The train will halt at Nawada, Tilaiya, Gaya, Dehri-on-Sone, Sasaram, Prayagraj and Tundla, and will offer general, sleeper and third AC coaches.
In addition, Holi special trains numbered 03253 and 03254 will run between Patna and Chalapalli via Tilaiya, benefiting travellers from Nawada district heading to South India. Meanwhile, the Gaya–Howrah Express has been upgraded with LHB coaches, which are considered safer and more comfortable, providing a smoother ride with improved safety features.
Railway authorities have urged passengers to book tickets in advance and rely only on official websites and helplines for accurate information, warning against misinformation during the peak travel season.
