NEW DELHI: Indian Railways on Friday deployed 116 extra coaches on 37 trains across multiple zones to cater to passengers facing travel disruptions due to the ongoing IndiGo crisis. The step follows a surge in demand as thousands seek alternative travel options amid mass cancellations and delays of flights. Northern Railways has also planned five special trains and is preparing to roll out additional services to absorb heavy passenger traffic. The extra coaches include sleeper, AC chair car and general second-class segments, depending on route requirements. According to Railways officials, 116 coaches have been added through 114 augmented trips, carrying up to 4,000 passengers per trip and accommodating 4,89,288 passengers overall. Plans are also underway to introduce 30 new special trains with 18 coaches each, capable of carrying 30,780 passengers per trip. Across 57 trips, these trains will cater to 21,16,800 travellers. In total, the arrangements are expected to handle 35,000 passengers per day, ensuring connectivity for nearly 26 lakh passengers during this period, officials said.
