Sealdah Division Takes Comprehensive Measures to open new Facilities before Durga Puja Rush.

Sealdah Division Takes Comprehensive Measures to open new Facilities before Durga Puja Rush.

Anticipating an unprecedented surge in passenger footfall during the upcoming Durga Puja festival, Eastern Railways Sealdah Division is rolling out a series of special arrangements to ensure a smooth, safe, and convenient travel experience for all commuters. Sealdah Division's strategic initiatives are designed to efficiently manage the extra rush and enhance security across the entire network. Sealdah and Dum Dum Jn are 2 busiest railway stations of the division witnessing massive footfall during Puja over the years, this is likely to be increased significantly as a direct result of recent metro line openings.To cater to this massive influx of commuters, particularly during the festive season, Sealdah Division has planned well in advance to create more area for passengers in these stations and executed the works well in time. Sealdah division is pleased to open and dedicate to new passengers? facilities at both stations.

A) Opening of 'Prafulla Dwar' at Sealdah Station

To streamline the flow of 'pandal-hoppers' and suburban travellers, Eastern Railway, Sealdah Division will open "Prafulla Dwar," a dedicated entrance at Sealdah Station's Platform No. 1. This new gate will help reduce congestion at the main station entrances and provide easier, more convenient access for passengers, especially those heading towards the Main Line.

This new facility at Prafulla Dwar is equipped with several modern amenities to facilitate a smoother journey for all passengers:

Expanded Ticketing Options: Nine new booking counters will be operational to handle the high volume of ticket sales. This includes 7 counters for General Passengers, 1 counter exclusively for Ladies, and 1 counter exclusively for Divyangjan (Persons with Disabilities). In addition, three new ATVMs (Automated Ticket Vending Machines) will be available.

QR Code Ticketing: Ticketing through QR Code is also being introduced to speed up the process.

Enhanced Information and Accessibility: The area has Train Indication Boards, a ramp for Divyangjan, GPS Clock, Public Address System, and improved illumination.

B) Dum Dum station will have new Booking Office at 2nd entry outside the platform area to manage the festive rush. To reduce long queues and improve the ticketing process, three new booking counters are being added, one of which will be exclusively for Divyangjan. Ticketing through QR Code will also be introduced, along with the installation of two new ATVMs at 2nd entry point of Dum Dum station. The entire area will be fully illuminated to ensure safety and convenience. Earlier the Booking Office was operational at Platform 4 & 5, causing congestion.

Looking ahead, Dum Dum station's facilities will be further enhanced with the future installation of a Train Indication Board, a Digital Clock, and a Public Address System.

C) Heightened Security and Vigilance

The safety and security of passengers are of the utmost priority. Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel from the Sealdah Division have been deployed with special arrangements to combat various security threats. RPF personnel are strategically positioned at all major stations and on trains to prevent incidents of theft, snatching, drugging, and other crimes. Special focus will be given to crowded areas and late-night services. RPF team will work in close coordination with local police and volunteers to maintain law and order and ensure a secure environment for all travellers through continuous CCTV monitoring.

D) Public Urinal Complex at Platform no 1 of Kanchrapara Station

A new, dedicated block of sanitary facilities has been opened at Kanchrapara Station platform no 1. This includes 10 urinals, 3 wash basins with premium sanitary fittings, and 1 Divyangjan-friendly toilet along with a ramp and handrails to ensure accessibility and convenience for all passengers.

Sealdah Division urges all passengers to cooperate to travel with proper tickets and co-operate with the railway staff and security personnel to make this a safe and memorable festive season.