The Puri Rath Yatra is one of the most significant Hindu festivals dedicated to Lord Jagannath. During the yatra, the Indian Railways plays a crucial role in facilitating the pilgrimage to Puri, Odisha. In order to facilitate the pilgrims’ journey to Puri, special trains have been announced. This festival is celebrated over nine days in the month of Ashadha. It sees thousands of devotees gathering to witness the procession of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra’s chariots through the streets of Puri.
Indian Railways Deploys 315 Trains For Puri Rath Yatra
With 315 special trains, Indian Railways is ensuring a convenient journey for pilgrims heading to Jagannath Puri, Odisha to seek blessings of Lord Jagannath and witness the vibrant Ratha Yatra. pic.twitter.com/a6764r1zSQ
— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) July 1, 2024
To accommodate the influx of pilgrims, the Ministry of Railways has announced the deployment of 315 special trains. These trains are specifically organised to ensure convenient travel for devotees from various parts of India to Puri. According to CNBC TV 18, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has assured that these trains will be equipped with adequate passenger amenities to support the smooth journey of pilgrims during this auspicious period.
The East Coast Railway (ECoR) is responsible for managing the railway operations in the region. It has taken additional steps to enhance pilgrim convenience. They have arranged for reserved class accommodations on special trains departing from key locations such as Badampahad, Rourkela, Balasore, Sonepur, Daspalla, Paradip, Jagadalpur, Raipur, Visakhapatnam, Palasa, Sompeta, Malda Town, and Sealdah (Kolkata).
Also Read: This Year At The Jagannath Rath Yatra The Rath Will Be Pulled Twice; All About The Rare Occurrence
Special Trains Will Provide Hassle-Free Travel
Rath Yatra Special Trains:
Almost all parts of Odisha and neighbouring States connected with Puri through Train during #RathaJatra2024
Committed to provide passengers convenience – More than 315 Spl Trains to and from Puri.#ECoRupdate @RailMinIndia pic.twitter.com/jCkd6Yrwwj
— East Coast Railway (@EastCoastRail) July 3, 2024
Special trains from various cities, including Visakhapatnam, Jagadalpur, Junagarh Road, Sonepur, Sambalpur, and others, will have minimal stops en route to Puri. These trains will halt at major stations such as Paradeep, Angul, Bhadrak, Khurda Road, Kendujhargarh, and Gunupur. It will certainly ensure efficient transport for pilgrims.
Recognising the significance of the Rath Yatra, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has declared a two-day public holiday on July 7 and 8, as per CNBC TV 18 reports. This holiday aims to facilitate widespread participation in the festival. It will also allow devotees ample time to partake in the festivities. They will be able to witness the return of the idols to the Jagannath Temple.
The arrangement of these special trains and the proactive measures taken by the East Coast Railway underline the commitment. It will ensure a seamless and spiritually enriching experience for pilgrims during the Puri Rath Yatra.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
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