With the festive season underway, Northern Railway has announced a temporary suspension of platform ticket sales at several major stations in Delhi and Ghaziabad to manage the surge in passengers traveling for Diwali and Chhath Puja. This proactive move aims to prevent overcrowding, improve passenger safety, and maintain smooth movement within railway premises during one of India’s busiest travel periods.
The restriction will remain in effect from October 15 to October 28, 2025, at New Delhi, Old Delhi, Hazrat Nizamuddin, Anand Vihar, and Ghaziabad stations. These hubs see some of the highest passenger volumes in Northern India, especially during festive holidays when millions travel to reconnect with families across the country.
Managing the Festive Rush
Festival periods like Diwali and Chhath bring extraordinary crowds to India’s railway stations. Families, workers, and students head home to celebrate, resulting in heavy footfall across the Northern Railway network.
By suspending platform tickets, the railway aims to limit unnecessary entry to platforms and prioritize access for passengers with valid travel tickets. This measure helps reduce congestion in waiting areas and minimizes the risk of crowd-related incidents.
Officials explained that the restriction is not intended to inconvenience travelers but to create a safer, more efficient environment. With fewer non-traveling individuals on platforms, essential passengers can board trains more easily, and staff can manage traffic flow better.
Exceptions for Special Categories
While the restriction applies to general visitors, Northern Railway has ensured exemptions for specific groups. People accompanying senior citizens, differently-abled passengers, women travelers, and illiterate passengers can still obtain platform tickets through station enquiry offices.
This consideration ensures that passengers who need assistance receive the support they require. Station authorities have been instructed to facilitate these exemptions swiftly to maintain accessibility and convenience.
Enhanced Crowd Management Measures
In addition to the suspension of platform ticket sales, Northern Railway has reinforced several other safety and crowd management initiatives. Additional staff and Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel will be deployed across major stations to guide passengers, regulate entry points, and maintain order.
Digital display systems and frequent public announcements will help commuters stay informed about train schedules, platform changes, and safety instructions. Enhanced CCTV monitoring and patrolling will further support the security plan, ensuring that both travelers and their belongings remain safe during the busy travel season.
Railway officials are also coordinating with local law enforcement to maintain smooth traffic around station premises. With large crowds expected during the pre-Diwali weekend, authorities have urged passengers to arrive early and rely on digital platforms for ticket bookings and train updates.
Promoting Efficient and Safe Travel
Northern Railway’s move aligns with its broader goal to enhance travel efficiency and safety during high-demand periods. In addition to the temporary restrictions, the network has introduced several special trains and extra coaches to accommodate the festive rush.
Passengers can check the updated schedules through official mobile applications or information kiosks at stations. The goal is to make travel seamless for long-distance and suburban commuters alike.
The railway has also advised passengers to minimize luggage, follow station signage, and use digital payment methods to reduce queues at ticket counters. These small changes, officials say, can significantly improve travel convenience and station flow.
Supporting Environmental and Operational Sustainability
The suspension of platform ticket sales also contributes indirectly to operational sustainability. Fewer people on platforms mean less crowd-related waste, improved station hygiene, and reduced strain on security and maintenance resources.
This measure complements Northern Railway’s ongoing efforts to modernize its stations and improve commuter experience through digital ticketing, energy-efficient lighting, and eco-friendly waste management systems.
A Forward-Looking Approach to Festival Travel
The Northern Railway’s decision demonstrates its commitment to proactive planning and passenger well-being. By prioritizing safety and order, the network aims to ensure that festive travel remains a joyful experience rather than a stressful one.
Railways remain the most accessible and affordable mode of transport for millions across India. During festive seasons, when train bookings soar and stations reach full capacity, crowd control becomes critical. The temporary restriction of platform tickets is a practical measure to protect passengers and maintain system efficiency.
Passenger Cooperation Key to Success
Authorities have urged passengers to cooperate with railway staff, follow instructions, and remain patient during peak hours. Those accompanying elderly or differently-abled relatives should arrive early and approach enquiry offices for necessary permissions.
Commuters can also take advantage of mobile ticketing, digital schedules, and station maps available on official apps to reduce physical congestion.
By adhering to safety guidelines and being mindful of others, travelers can help ensure an orderly and pleasant festive journey.
Ensuring Smooth Journeys This Festive Season
As Diwali and Chhath draw near, Northern Railway’s timely measures aim to balance safety, efficiency, and convenience. Limiting non-essential access to platforms, improving monitoring, and deploying additional staff reflect a comprehensive plan designed to handle record-breaking passenger volumes.
These short-term steps contribute to long-term goals—creating a more organized, technology-driven, and passenger-centric railway system.
The initiative stands as a reminder that effective management and cooperation can transform even the busiest travel season into a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable experience for everyone.
With these measures in place, travelers can look forward to celebrating Diwali and Chhath with their loved ones without worrying about delays, confusion, or overcrowding—marking another positive step toward a smarter, safer Indian Railways.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
