Newssuper Report Tania Kundu Kolkata, October 23, 2026:
Sealdah Division witnessed a record-breaking passenger footfall of *2,63,39,698* passengers from *Sashti to Dashami* during Durga Puja 2026, This represents an impressive increase of approximately *33.44%* over the previous year, highlighting the vital role of suburban railway services in connecting millions of people with festive celebrations across Kolkata and adjoining areas. It is also worth noting that Durga Puja 2026 had *one additional day with Saptami* included in the extended period of celebrations, which contributed to the overall increase in passenger movement.
To facilitate the heavy festive rush, *266 special train services* were operated from *Sashti to Dashami*, providing additional travel options and helping passengers reach their destinations conveniently and comfortably.
During the festive period, *Sealdah, Dum Dum, Bidhannagar Road, Sonarpur, Ballygunge, Ranaghat and Kalyani* recorded particularly high passenger footfall. Among these stations, Kalyani witnessed a significant increase in passenger movement *approximately 14.01%*, reflecting the substantial rise in passenger movement during the festive season.
To manage the enormous crowds, all departments of Sealdah Division worked in close coordination, ensuring effective crowd management, passenger guidance, safety and the smooth movement of passengers at stations.
Under the leadership of DRM/Sealdah Shri Rajeev Saxena, the Commercial, Operating, Railway Protection Force (RPF), Medical and other concerned departments demonstrated excellent teamwork and dedication. Railway personnel and volunteers remained deployed at stations to guide passengers through public announcement systems and megaphones, regulate crowd movement and provide assistance wherever required. Continuous monitoring through the divisional war room further strengthened operational preparedness and enabled close supervision of crowd movement.
- *DRM/Sealdah Shri Rajeev Saxena said*, Sealdah Division successfully managed such a massive passenger footfall during Durga Puja 2026. I sincerely appreciate the excellent performance, dedication and teamwork of all departments and frontline staff. Their tireless efforts, along with the operation of special trains and effective crowd management measures, helped facilitate smooth passenger movement throughout the festive period.
I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to our passengers for their cooperation, patience and understanding during the festive rush. Their support played an important role in ensuring the smooth management of such a large number of passengers. This achievement reflects the collective commitment of our railway family and our continued efforts to provide safe, convenient and reliable travel to every passenger.
