The annual Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals, drawing millions of devotees from across the globe. Bhartiya Rail plays a pivotal role in ensuring that these pilgrims have a smooth and comfortable journey to Shreekshetra Puri. This year, Indian Railways has significantly enhanced its services, demonstrating its commitment to serving as the lifeline for devotees.
East Coast Railway (ECoR) is set to operate 365 special trains to and from Puri for the Rath Yatra 2025, supplementing the regular train services. This marks an increase from the 315 special trains that were operated in 2024, highlighting the railways' dedication to scaling up services for this major festival. These special trains will connect Puri with various locations in Odisha and neighboring states like West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, facilitating easier travel for pilgrims from remote and interior areas. Towns such as Rourkela, Biramitrapur, Bangiriposi, and more will have direct train services to Puri.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the substantial increase in train services, with 1,215 services, comprising 850 regular and 365 special ones, operational this year. This represents a fourfold increase since 2014. To manage the high demand, an AI-based real-time demand prediction system has been implemented, enabling dynamic scheduling and ensuring connectivity to even the most remote tribal and aspirational districts of Odisha. Indian Railways is prepared to accommodate around 20 lakh passengers, with a daily peak of 2 lakh pilgrims.
Significant improvements have been made to Puri station to enhance the overall pilgrim experience. The station now features ten platforms and designated holding spaces capable of accommodating 25,000 visitors. To provide relief from the heat, adequate arrangements such as food stalls, water booths, and coolers have been put in place. Moreover, an estimated 2.5 lakh free meals will be served to the pilgrims. Sanitation and cleanliness are also a priority, with modern jet cleaning machines and sewage suction trucks deployed to maintain hygiene.
Accessibility is a key focus, with dedicated arrangements for the elderly, differently-abled, and medically vulnerable individuals. Mobile medical units, ambulance support, and first-aid kiosks have been strategically located along the routes to ensure prompt medical assistance.
Beyond transportation, Indian Railways also plays a crucial role in the Rath Yatra itself. A dedicated engineering team and special screw jacks are provided to assist with the movement and positioning of the massive wooden chariots. This support ensures the smooth progression of the Rath Yatra, embodying the ethos of "Seva Parmo Dharma" – service above all. The team assists in transporting the massive chariots from the construction site to Shree Jagannath temple. The railways team uses the special screw jacks for ensuring proper positioning, alignment, and forward movement of the chariots on the designated path. It also helps in removing any obstacles and maintaining adequate distance between the chariots and accompanies the chariots until the completion of the Yatra.
Passengers are advised to check train timings and availability on official railway websites or mobile apps. Public announcements will also be made to keep travelers informed.
