Railways Launch Special Ahmedabad–Delhi Train Amid Massive IndiGo Cancellations

Ahmedabad: The sudden cancellation of thousands of IndiGo flights increased the problems of passengers across the country. Meanwhile, understanding the situation, Western Railway has taken a big step. To help the stranded people on the Ahmedabad-Delhi route, special trains are being run, and additional coaches are being added to many trains.

Why did the canceled Indigo flights worsen the situation?

Indigo's operations were badly affected in the last few days. A large number of flights had to be canceled due to system reboots, crew shortages, and schedule disturbances. People were left stranded at airports in cities like Ahmedabad, Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Many passengers could not find hotels or other arrangements and had no immediate travel option.

What decision did the Railways take to help the passengers?

Seeing the increasing number of flight cancellations, Western Railways took immediate action. 116 additional coaches are being added to 37 premium and long-distance trains to control the increasing crowd. Railways admitted that the burden of passengers suddenly diverted from air travel was directly falling on the trains; hence, it was necessary to increase the capacity.

Why was the Sabarmati-Delhi special train run?

The most important announcement was of the Sabarmati-Delhi superfast special train. This train will leave Sabarmati at 10:55 pm on the 7th and 9th of December and will reach Delhi at around 3:15 pm the next day. The return from Delhi will be at 9 pm on the 8th and 10th of December.

This train will stop at important stations like Mahesana, Abu Road, Ajmer, Jaipur, and Gurgaon. Its entire journey will take about 15–16 hours. AC 3-tier coaches have been installed in the train so that passengers can travel comfortably on long journeys.

How will the booking be done, and what benefits will the passengers get?

Booking of this special train is available from December 6 on the IRCTC website and at all PRS counters. The decision is important because people whose flights were canceled had limited immediate travel options. Railways says that if needed, more special trains can also be run.

Will these steps of Railways be able to reduce the problems of passengers?

This disruption in Indigo flights affected people's daily routines, plans, and important work. In such an environment, the quick response of Railways is like a relief. While air travel is expected to return to normal within the next few days, till then trains are becoming a reliable option for thousands of passengers.