Holi Rush: Special Trains from Udhna Ease Migrant Exodus

Surat | Gujarat — As the colours of Holi fade in Surat’s textile and diamond hubs, another annual ritual unfolds — the massive homeward journey of migrant workers. Tens of thousands of labourers from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha and Madhya Pradesh have begun returning to their native towns, triggering an unprecedented rush at Udhna Junction railway station.

To manage the surge, Western Railway has rolled out special trains and strengthened on-ground arrangements, ensuring that passengers board safely despite heavy crowds. Officials said lessons from last year helped authorities prepare in advance this time.

“Keeping in mind the intense rush and rising temperatures during Holi, we created proper holding areas before the crowd peaked. Our focus was on safety and comfort,” a senior railway official said.

Udhna Junction, the primary rail hub for trains heading to North India, witnesses chaotic scenes every Holi season. This year, however, 10 specially constructed small sheds on Platform No. 6 have provided relief. Each shed is equipped with fans, lighting and mobile charging points — a critical facility for migrant workers coordinating travel with families back home.

Four additional drinking water taps have also been installed to prevent dehydration among passengers waiting for hours. Crowd management is being jointly handled by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and local police.

Security has been tightened with deployment of 50 RPF personnel, 40 GRP staff and around 30 ticket-checking officials. General ticket holders are being allowed to queue systematically, reducing the risk of stampedes or clashes.

“Despite the crowd, boarding has been smooth. The queue system has helped avoid chaos,” said an RPF officer on duty.

However, not all passengers are relieved. Many complained about long waiting lists despite booking tickets months in advance. “I reserved my seat three months ago, but it is still in waiting. Now I have no option but to travel in the general coach,” said Ramesh Yadav, a textile worker heading to Bihar.

To further ease the pressure, Western Railway has extended the operational period of three key special trains. The Surat–Chhapra Special (09065) will now run until March 30, 2026. The Ahmedabad–Darbhanga Special (09465) will operate till March 27, 2026, while the Ahmedabad–Patna Special (09447) will remain in service until March 25, 2026.

Tickets for these services can be booked through PRS counters or the official Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) website.

Every year, Surat’s migrant workforce powers the city’s industries — and every Holi, the city pauses as they return home.