With the beginning of the new year, Indian Railways has given a big good news for the passengers. Four new special trains will be run from January 1, 2025, which will provide better connectivity and convenience to the passengers. Along with these new trains, Railways has also made some changes in the ticket booking rules, which are aimed at making the booking process more simple and convenient for passengers.
In this article, we will give detailed information about these new special trains, and will also throw light on the new ticket booking rules. This information will be very useful for travelers, especially those who are planning a trip in the New Year. Let us know about this new initiative in detail and understand how it will improve the passenger experience.
Introduction of new special trains
Four new special trains being started by Indian Railways from January 1, 2025 will provide better connectivity and convenience to the passengers. These trains will connect various important cities and meet the increasing demand of passengers.
Details of new special trains
| train number | root | walking days | starting date |
| 02435/02436 | New Delhi – Varanasi | daily | 1 January 2025 |
| 02437/02438 | Mumbai – Ahmedabad | Monday Wednesday Friday | 1 January 2025 |
| 02439/02440 | Chennai – Bengaluru | tuesday, thursday, saturday | 1 January 2025 |
| 02441/02442 | Kolkata – Patna | Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday | 1 January 2025 |
new ticket booking rules
Indian Railways has made some important changes in the ticket booking rules for the convenience of passengers. These new rules will come into effect from January 1, 2025 and will make the booking process more simple and convenient for passengers.
Improvement in online booking
- The IRCTC website and mobile app have been upgraded, so that passengers will now be able to book tickets even faster.
- The new user-friendly interface will help passengers easily find trains and book tickets.
- Real-time seat availability information will now be more accurate, helping passengers plan better.
Changes in tatkal booking
- Tatkal ticket booking timings will now be from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, which is 2 hours more than before.
- The number of premium tatkal tickets has been increased by 10%, giving passengers more choices.
Special provisions for senior citizens and disabled passengers
- Senior citizens above 60 years of age can now avail up to 50% discount on online booking.
- Now at least 4 seats will be reserved in every train for disabled passengers.
Features of new special trains
Passengers will get many modern facilities in these new special trains, which will make their journey more comfortable.
modern coach
- Air-conditioned coaches that will provide comfortable travel to passengers in both summer and winter seasons.
- Coaches equipped with bio-toilets, which are environment friendly and help in maintaining cleanliness.
- Panoramic view coaches will be available in some trains, which will allow passengers to enjoy the beautiful views.
passenger facilities
- Mobile charging points and reading lights will be available in every coach.
- Wi-Fi connectivity will allow passengers to access the internet during the journey.
- CCTV cameras will ensure the safety of passengers.
catering services
- E-Catering service will allow passengers to order food of their choice.
- Special attention will be given to hygienic food preparation and packaging.
- Some trains will also have mini pantry cars, where passengers can buy fresh food.
Detailed description of new rules for ticket booking
The new ticket booking rules have brought many benefits for passengers. Let us understand these rules in detail.
Improvement in online booking process
- Fast Booking Mode: With this new feature, passengers will be able to make quick booking for their favorite route and train.
- Smart Search: Passengers will now be able to filter trains based on various parameters such as timing, fare, and seat availability.
- Multi-city booking: Tickets can be booked for multiple cities in a single transaction.
Refund and Cancellation Policy
- Automatic Refund: Passengers will automatically get a refund in case the train is canceled or delayed.
- Flexible Cancellation: Passengers will now be able to cancel their tickets up to 24 hours before the date of journey without any charges.
- Partial Cancellation: Now tickets of some passengers can be canceled in group booking.
loyalty program
- Rail Mitra Programme: A new loyalty program has been launched for regular passengers.
- Points Earning: Passengers will be able to earn points on every journey, which can later be used for ticket booking or upgrade.
- Special Offers: Loyal passengers will get special discounts and offers from time to time.
Route and schedule of new special trains
The routes and schedules of these new special trains have been prepared keeping in mind the convenience of the passengers.
New Delhi – Varanasi Special (02435/02436)
- Departure: New Delhi – 6:00 am
- Arrival: Varanasi – 8:00 pm
- Main Stops: Kanpur, Prayagraj, Mughalsarai
- Frequency: Daily
Mumbai – Ahmedabad Special (02437/02438)
- Departure: Mumbai Central – 7:00 am
- Arrival: Ahmedabad – 1:00 pm
- Main Stops: Surat, Vadodara
- Frequency: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Chennai – Bengaluru Special (02439/02440)
- Departure: Chennai Central – 6:30 am
- Arrival: Bengaluru City – 12:30 pm
- Main Stop: Katpadi, Jolarpettai
- Frequency: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday
Kolkata – Patna Special (02441/02442)
- Departure: Howrah – 2:00 PM
- Arrival: Patna – 10:00 pm
- Main Stops: Asansol, Dhanbad, Gaya
- Frequency: Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday
Disclaimer:This article is for informational purposes only. Although we have tried to provide accurate information, passengers are advised to confirm the latest information and rules from the official website of Indian Railways or helpline before travelling. Train schedules, routes and rules may be subject to change without prior notice.
