Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav has slammed the central government for not providing sufficient train services to Bihar ahead of Chhath Puja, one of the state’s most significant festivals. Speaking to the media, Lalu said that thousands of devotees traveling to Bihar for the four-day festival are facing severe inconvenience due to the shortage of trains and inadequate arrangements by the Ministry of Railways.
Chhath Puja, celebrated with great devotion in Bihar and surrounding states, sees a massive movement of people returning to their hometowns to perform rituals on riverbanks. Lalu criticized the Centre for not planning adequately, noting that the demand for travel spikes significantly during this period. According to him, the failure to run additional trains has led to overcrowding, long queues, and delays, causing hardship to pilgrims observing strict fasting rituals.
Lalu emphasized that this is not the first time the central government has fallen short in arranging adequate rail services during major festivals, calling it a “systematic negligence” that inconveniences millions of devotees. He urged the Railways Ministry to urgently schedule additional trains and special services to facilitate smooth travel for Chhath Puja participants.
The RJD leader also raised concerns about safety, noting that overcrowding on trains during peak festival periods increases the risk of accidents and discomfort for passengers. He stressed the need for better planning, especially for high-demand routes connecting major cities to Bihar, to ensure that devotees can reach their destinations safely and on time.
Railway authorities have acknowledged the rising passenger demand during festivals and occasionally run special trains, but critics argue that the measures are often insufficient to meet the peak travel requirements of millions of people. Lalu’s criticism comes amid growing public frustration over ticket availability, last-minute cancellations, and the lack of dedicated arrangements for large-scale seasonal travel.
Political analysts suggest that Lalu’s statement not only addresses immediate travel concerns but also highlights broader governance issues, portraying the Centre as insensitive to regional needs and cultural priorities. It underscores the political narrative of regional leaders advocating for local welfare, especially during high-profile religious festivals.
In response to the criticism, rail officials have indicated that they are assessing passenger demand and may announce additional special trains closer to Chhath Puja. Meanwhile, travelers are advised to plan their journeys in advance and book tickets as early as possible to avoid inconvenience.
In conclusion, Lalu Prasad Yadav’s comments bring attention to the challenges faced by Chhath Puja devotees due to insufficient rail services, emphasizing the need for better planning, adequate infrastructure, and responsive governance during major festivals. Ensuring smooth travel for millions of pilgrims remains a critical logistical and political priority in Bihar during this festive season.
