Bihar: Vande Bharat Trains Add Convenience to Patna-Ranchi and Patna-Howrah Routes

HAJIPUR: Under the jurisdiction of East Central Railway, numerous initiatives have been implemented to enhance the travel experience for passengers commuting to/from various stations across the country.

Festival special trains are currently operational between several stations within the East Central Railway network, such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Secunderabad, etc. During this year’s festival season, approximately 60 special trains are scheduled to operate from October to December, making around 900 trips in total.

Additionally, Vande Bharat trains are already serving the Patna-Ranchi and Patna-Howrah railway sections, providing added convenience for passengers.

In response to the increased influx of passengers, railway security forces are maintaining constant vigilance at train stations to ensure traveler safety. As an extra precaution, the Railway Protection Force has collaborated with canine units, stationed strategically at select railway stations.

In addition to these measures, extra ticket counters have been set up at major stations to facilitate smoother service, and more counters will be opened if demand necessitates. Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs) have been installed at various stations to expedite the process of obtaining unreserved tickets and reduce queues at ticket counters. ATVM facilitators have been deployed to assist passengers in using these machines seamlessly.

To manage the higher passenger volume, continuous announcements are being made at stations to provide information about train schedules and special services. Railway security forces are actively monitoring main stations through CCTV cameras to ensure passenger safety and deter anti-social elements and crowd-related issues.

Alongside the Railway Protection Force and the Police Administration, the presence of scouts and guides has been secured at major stations to enhance security and offer passenger assistance. For traveler convenience, “May I Help You/Help Desk/Sahayog Booth” facilities have been established at major stations, staffed by knowledgeable personnel from relevant departments to provide information.

Medical aid booths are available to address passengers’ health needs. A sufficient number of security personnel are deployed at stations and onboard trains, with a particular focus on foot overbridges, platforms, and circulation areas. Beyond the Railway Protection Force and the Police Administration, railway staff members are assigned to ensure the smooth flow of passengers. High-level oversight is maintained for tasks related to passenger convenience and security, with dedicated officers overseeing these efforts.