Guwahati: The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has announced the operation of five pairs of Holi Special Trains to manage festive rush and ensure smoother travel for passengers from Guwahati, Dibrugarh, and other parts of the Northeast. The services will run between mid-February and late March.
The move is part of a nationwide initiative by Indian Railways, which plans to operate 1,500 special trains across the country this year, up from 1,144 services last year.
Northeast Frontier Railway will operate five pairs of Holi Special Trains on key routes, including Narangi–Gorakhpur and Dibrugarh–Jaynagar. The services will run between mid-February and late March to ease the festive rush, benefiting passengers from Guwahati, Dibrugarh, and across the Northeast.
Key Routes Announced
The five Holi Special train pairs under NFR will operate on the following routes:
- Narangi – Gorakhpur
- Katihar – Amritsar
- Dibrugarh – Jaynagar
- New Jalpaiguri – Muzaffarpur
- Kishanganj – Lalkuan
Each pair will run six trips in both directions during the notified period.
Guwahati-Focused Services
For Guwahati commuters, the Narangi–Gorakhpur Special (05633/05634) is particularly significant:
- 05633 (Narangi–Gorakhpur):
Runs every Thursday from February 19 to March 26
Departs Narangi at 1:20 PM, reaches Gorakhpur at 1:00 PM the next day - 05634 (Gorakhpur–Narangi):
Runs every Friday from February 20 to March 27
Narangi station serves as a crucial boarding point for Guwahati-based passengers heading toward eastern Uttar Pradesh and adjoining regions during Holi.
Dibrugarh and Upper Assam Connectivity
The Dibrugarh–Jaynagar Special (05974/05973) will benefit passengers from Upper Assam:
- 05974 (Dibrugarh–Jaynagar):
Operates on Tuesdays from February 17 to March 24 - 05973 (Return):
Operates on Wednesdays during the same period
This route is expected to see high demand from migrant workers and families travelling for Holi celebrations.
Other Special Services
- Katihar–Amritsar (05736/05735):
Operates Wednesdays and Fridays between February 18 and March 25 - New Jalpaiguri–Muzaffarpur (05740/05739):
Runs every Saturday from February 21 to March 28 - Kishanganj–Lalkuan (05741/05742):
Operates Thursdays and Fridays until March 27
Why This Matters for Guwahati
Holi typically sees heavy outbound movement from Guwahati, particularly toward Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and northern India. Regular trains often face long waiting lists during this period. The additional special trains are expected to ease congestion and provide more confirmed booking options.
Railway officials have advised passengers to check detailed stoppages, seat availability and updated timings through the IRCTC portal or official NFR notifications before travel.
What Happens Next
Bookings for these special services will be available as per the railway reservation schedules. Authorities may announce additional services depending on passenger demand closer to the festival.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Holi Special Trains has NFR announced?
NFR will operate five pairs of Holi Special Trains on key routes.
Which route benefits Guwahati passengers directly?
The Narangi–Gorakhpur Special will serve Guwahati-based passengers.
When will the services run?
Between mid-February and late March, depending on the route.
Where can passengers check detailed timings and stoppages?
On the official IRCTC website or through Northeast Frontier Railway notifications.
