Pune station bans platform tickets for 15 days from Nov 1 ahead of Diwali, Chhath rush

Sale of platform tickets at Pune railway station will be temporarily banned from November 1 to November 15. Central Railway has taken the decision in preparation for the rise in passenger numbers during Diwali and Chhath Puja.

The railway's aim is to prevent crowds from building up on platforms, so that passengers can move in and out of the station more safely in the festival rush. The number of people travelling during this period is expected to rise, so railway officials want to reduce the presence of those who do not need to be on the platform.

However, the ban will not apply to everyone who accompanies a passenger. Platform tickets will continue to be issued to those helping senior citizens, patients and children. Those accompanying passengers who cannot read or write and need help will also be given tickets. Similarly, women who cannot travel alone and need support will also fall within the exemption.

The purpose of the exemption is to allow family members or other helpers to go to the platform with passengers who genuinely need support.

Railway officials have asked passengers and their relatives to plan their visits to the station carefully and not to go on to the platform if it is not necessary. Travellers have also been told that crowd-management arrangements will be in force during the 15-day period, and that they should cooperate with railway staff.

The temporary ban comes at a time when demand for rail services generally rises during the Diwali and Chhath season, and large numbers of passengers return to their villages and towns. Central Railway expects the move to keep movement at Pune railway station orderly and improve safety.