Amit Sudarshan, Chief Public Relations Officer of North Western Railway, said, “Passenger load on the railway is very high during the summer vacation, due to which passengers sometimes do not get confirmed reservation tickets.” He added, “In such a situation, North Western Railway is operating holiday special trains until July 15 and has added coaches to most long-distance trains. Additionally, the frequency of trains has also been increased.”

The railway authorities stated that these measures aim to ensure smoother travel and reduce inconvenience during the peak summer period.

In addition to running special trains and adding extra coaches, the Railways is also improving passenger facilities at major stations nationwide by establishing dedicated holding areas equipped with modern amenities.

Earlier this week, Ashwini Vaishnaw, in a written reply in Rajya Sabha, noted that the Railways has launched a plan to create such passenger holding zones at 76 stations across India. These zones intend to alleviate platform congestion by providing well-organised spaces with essentials such as seating, drinking water, toilets, ticketing services, information displays, and security checks to manage peak-hour crowds.

A model holding area at New Delhi Railway Station has been commissioned, significantly easing congestion. It offers enhanced passenger convenience with features including additional ticket counters, Automatic Ticket Vending Machines, Public Address Systems, and electronic train information boards.

For safety and comfort, the area is equipped with CCTV surveillance, luggage scanners, door frame metal detectors, uninterrupted power supply, improved lighting, High Volume Low Speed fans, and fire-fighting systems. Facilities also include RO drinking water and separate toilets for men, women, and Divyangjans.