Guwahati: The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has introduced two additional pairs of special trains between Jogbani and Tundla to accommodate the anticipated surge of pilgrims attending the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025. These special trains will operate for a single trip in each direction, ensuring a comfortable travel experience for devotees.
Additionally, a Maghi Purnima special train is running daily between Katihar and Manihari to cater to pilgrim needs, with operations continuing until February 21, 2025.
Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of NFR, detailed the schedule of these special trains. Train no. 05718 (Jogbani – Tundla) departed from Jogbani on February 14, reaching Tundla the next evening. In the return direction, Train no. 05717 (Tundla – Jogbani) is scheduled to depart from Tundla at 21:40 hours on February 16, arriving in Jogbani on February 18. Another special, Train no. 05720 (Jogbani – Tundla), will leave Jogbani at 18:40 hours on February 15, reaching Tundla the following evening, while its return service, Train no. 05719 (Tundla – Jogbani), will depart Tundla at 21:40 hours on February 17, reaching Jogbani on February 19.
These trains will run via Forbesganj, Arariya Court, Katihar, Khagaria, Barauni Jn., Patliputra, Ara, Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya, Prayagraj, and Etawah stations. They will feature 22 coaches, including AC-2 tier, AC-3 tier, Sleeper Class, and General Sitting coaches for passenger convenience.
Additionally, a one-way special train (Train no. 05841) will run between Rangapara North and Tundla, departing Rangapara North at 17:30 hours on February 15 and arriving in Tundla at 06:30 hours on February 17.
For local connectivity, Train no. 07540 (Katihar – Manihari) departs from Katihar at 20:30 hours, reaching Manihari at 21:30 hours, while Train no. 07539 (Manihari – Katihar) leaves Manihari at 05:00 hours, reaching Katihar at 06:00 hours. These services will run via Manshahi, Khurrampur, Mahiyarpur, and Baghmara Halt with eight coaches, including a Driving Power Coach and Trailer Coach.
NFR’s initiative aims to facilitate seamless travel for Maha Kumbh Mela pilgrims, ensuring a comfortable return journey for devotees from different regions. Passengers are advised to check the IRCTC website and NFR’s social media platforms for detailed stoppages and updated timings before planning their journey.
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