Patna: Passengers travelling on the Patna–Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction (DDU) rail route faced significant inconvenience on Tuesday after multiple trains on the down line operated behind schedule. The prolonged delays led to overcrowded platforms, missed connections and travel disruptions for hundreds of commuters.
Passengers Struggle in Heat and Humidity
The delays came amid sweltering weather conditions, making the wait particularly difficult for children, women and elderly passengers. Many travellers were seen resting on station platforms after waiting for hours for their trains.
Passengers also reported difficulties accessing drinking water and food items during the extended waiting period. As trains continued to arrive late, congestion at stations increased throughout the day.
Several Key Trains Operated Behind Schedule
Among the trains affected were Punjab Mail, Farakka Express and Vibhuti Express.
Punjab Mail reportedly arrived around one hour late, while Farakka Express was delayed by nearly one and a half hours. Vibhuti Express reached Buxar approximately two hours behind its scheduled time.
The continued delays resulted in large crowds gathering on station platforms as passengers awaited updates on train movements.
Missed Connections and Disrupted Schedules
Several passengers said the delays caused them to miss connecting trains and affected important appointments.
Some travellers reported that they were unable to reach Patna on time for medical consultations. Students and office-goers also faced difficulties due to the disruption in train services, with many reaching their destinations much later than planned.
Inquiry Counters Witness Heavy Rush
Railway inquiry counters witnessed a steady flow of passengers seeking information about train arrivals and departures.
However, many commuters complained that they were unable to receive clear updates regarding revised arrival timings, leading to further confusion and frustration.
Technical Issues and Traffic Pressure Suspected
According to sources, operational technical issues and heavy traffic pressure on the down line may have contributed to the delays.
Railway authorities, however, had not issued any official statement regarding the disruption till the filing of this report.
Passengers Seek Better Rail Operations
Passengers urged railway authorities to improve operational efficiency and ensure timely train services. They said recurring delays continue to disrupt travel plans and called for better communication regarding train schedules during such situations
