Congress leader Rahul Gndhi (ANI)
NEW DELHI: Leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Saturday launched a sharp attack on the Centre over the promised 12,000 special trains to manage the festive travel rush.In a post on social media platform X, the Congress leader highlighted overcrowding in trains, with some operating at 200 per cent capacity, as the Chhath festival approaches.Gandhi wrote, “It’s the month of festivals – Diwali, Bhai Dooj, Chhath. In Bihar, these festivals mean more than just faith; they are a longing to return home–the fragrance of the soil, the love of family, the warmth of the village. But this longing has now become a struggle. Trains to Bihar are packed to the brim, getting tickets is impossible, and the journey has become inhumane. Many trains carry up to 200% of their capacity – people are hanging from doors and even rooftops.” Targeting the NDA government, he added, “The claims of the double-engine government have proven hollow. Where are the 12,000 special trains? Why do conditions get worse every year? Why are the people of Bihar forced to return home in such humiliating conditions every year? If there were employment and a dignified life in the state, they wouldn’t have to wander thousands of kilometres away. These are not just helpless travellers; they are living proof of the NDA’s deceptive policies and intentions. A safe and dignified journey is a right, not a favour.”Earlier, former Bihar chief minister and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav also criticised the NDA over the issue.The RJD leader alleged that the “uncrowned king of lies and the leader of empty promises” had claimed that 12,000 out of the country’s total 13,198 trains would operate for Bihar during Chhath, terming the promise a “blatant deception.” An official release from Indian Railways stated that a robust schedule of more than 12,000 special trains is being operated across the country to manage the upcoming Chhath Puja and the ongoing Diwali season rush.According to the release, over a duration of 61 days, from October 1 to November 30, a total of 11,865 trips (916 trains) have been notified, including 9,338 reserved and 2,203 unreserved trips. Go to Source
