Festive Season Train Rush: With Diwali just a day away, thousands of passengers are rushing to their hometowns, leading to overcrowding in trains and on railway stations. A chaotic situation was witnessed at Bhopal's Sant Hirdaram station, raising serious questions about ticketless passengers forcing their way into AC coaches, traveler safety, railway management and the availability of train services.
A Physical Scuffle Unfolded At Bhopal Railway Station Due To Train Overcrowding
Videos circulating on social media show the extent of the problem. A video from Sant Hirdaram Nagar railway station in Bhopal shows a confrontation between AC coach staff and unreserved passengers allegedly attempting to enter a reserved coach without valid tickets. The video also shows passengers pushing and shoving each other while trying to board Train No. 19489, the Ahmedabad-Gorakhpur Express. The situation reportedly turned chaotic as passengers struggled to board the train.
AC Coach Overcrowding Leaves Passengers In Trouble
The problem is not limited to Bhopal. Another video shared on social media shows the condition of the 2nd AC and 3rd AC coaches of Mangala Express (Train No. 12617) at Manmad on November 5.
A passenger travelling with his two-year-old daughter said that despite booking tickets nearly two months in advance, the coaches were overcrowded. He claimed that there was not even enough space to reach the washroom. The passenger also raised concerns about drunk people inside the coaches.
These incidents highlight how Indian Railways overcrowding affects passengers across different travel classes. Even those holding confirmed AC tickets are facing difficulties due to overcrowded coaches and unauthorised entry.
Another video shows angry passengers with valid AC tickets pulling the emergency chain to stop the train amid chaos caused by unauthorised travellers.
Railways Under Pressure During Festive Season
Indian Railways remains the primary mode of long-distance travel for millions. However, the Diwali rush once again raises questions about coach availability, ticket checking and passenger management.
Passengers have complained that despite paying extra for AC tickets, they cannot enjoy a safe and comfortable journey. Social media users have also stressed the need for adequate train capacity, strict enforcement of reservation rules and better passenger safety.
