Sealdah Division implements several steps to tackle massive crowd during Kali Puja & Diwali | Check details

As the vibrant lights of Kali Puja and Diwali prepare to illuminate, Eastern Railway's Sealdah Division is ramping up with a comprehensive strategy to manage the expected crowd of devotees at one of India's busiest stations. With lakhs of passengers anticipated to flock to Kolkata and its suburbs for the celebrations starting October 20th, the division has rolled out proactive measures focusing on platform efficiency, extended services, and heightened security to ensure a smooth and safe journey for all. This festive season, marked by Kali Puja followed by Diwali, promises not just spiritual fervor but also a logistical challenge— one that Sealdah is tackling head-on to prevent any bottlenecks or mishaps.

Key operational modifications include dedicated platform assignments at critical junctions like Dum Dum and Bidhannagar to streamline departures. For instance, all major up local trains heading to destinations such as Naihati, Ranaghat, Krishnanagar, Gede, Baharampur Court, and Lalagola will use platform no 1 at these stations, while South section locals via Majherhat and Ballygunge stick to platform no 2. Devotees en route to the iconic Barasat Kali Pujas, a highlight drawing crowds from across the district, will benefit from Barasat, Bongaon, Hasnabad, and Dankuni up locals operating solely from platform no 2 at Dum Dum and Bidhannagar. Long-distance mail, express, and passenger trains are also confined to platform 2 here, minimizing confusion and wait times during peak hours.

Beyond routing, Sealdah is enhancing on-ground support to keep the festive spirit uninterrupted. From October 20 to 24, all ticket counters will stay open round-the-clock, and no local trains will skip stops—ensuring accessibility even on the holiday, though minor delays may occur. The station premises will be hawker-free for a clutter-free environment, and a new 300-square-meter covered holding area in the external parking zone will offer respite from the bustle. Special surveillance will blanket four high-traffic spots—Dum Dum, Barasat, Naihati, and Bidhannagar Road. Sealdah Division emphasizes that passenger safety remains paramount, with advance announcements promised for any platform changes or cancellations, allowing travelers to plan worry-free amid the glow of diyas and devotion.