Headline: Dense Winter Fog Disrupts Northern Rail Network, Leaving Passengers Stranded and Unprepared
Headline: The winter season has once again created major challenges for railway operations in northern India, as dense fog continues to affect long-distance train services. Several trains heading toward northern states such as Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh have been running significantly behind schedule, particularly during early morning hours. This weather-related disruption has not only delayed arrivals but has also caused widespread inconvenience for passengers, many of whom were unprepared for extended travel times.
Impact of Dense Fog on Train Operations
Reduced visibility caused by heavy fog has forced trains to operate at slower speeds to ensure safety. Railway authorities have confirmed that fog conditions across large parts of northern India have severely impacted punctuality. Signal visibility, track monitoring, and operational safety protocols require extra caution during such weather, which directly affects train movement. As a result, long-distance routes connecting eastern and northern regions have experienced consistent delays over several days.
Severe Delay of Ranchi to New Delhi Rajdhani Express
One of the most notable incidents involved the Ranchi to New Delhi Rajdhani Express, which reached its destination more than ten hours late. Instead of arriving at its scheduled time in the morning, the train finally reached Delhi late in the evening. Passengers onboard reportedly faced significant difficulties, including the lack of adequate food and drinking water during the prolonged journey. The unexpected delay turned a premium travel experience into a stressful situation for many travelers.
Passenger Complaints and Onboard Challenges
Several passengers expressed their dissatisfaction with the arrangements made during the delay. According to passenger accounts, only one meal was provided despite the train being delayed for several hours. Travelers were informed by onboard staff that there were no additional food supplies or drinking water available. This led to discomfort, frustration, and chaos inside the coaches, especially for elderly passengers, children, and those with medical needs.
Railway Rules and Passenger Welfare Responsibilities
As per existing railway service guidelines, passengers are entitled to food and drinking water when a train is delayed beyond a certain duration. In this situation, passengers argued that these rules were not followed properly. The responsibility of ensuring basic amenities during prolonged delays lies with railway management, particularly on long-distance and premium trains. Incidents like this raise important questions about preparedness and crisis management during adverse weather conditions.
Other Trains Affected Across Northern Routes
The Rajdhani Express was not the only train impacted by fog-related delays. Several other important services, including routes connecting Delhi, Ranchi, Jammu, Sambalpur, and other major cities, were also running late by multiple hours. These delays disrupted travel plans for thousands of passengers, leading to missed connections, extended station waiting times, and overcrowding at major junctions.
Introduction of Special Train Services
To reduce passenger inconvenience and manage increased demand, railway authorities have announced additional special train services on select routes. A special service connecting Santragachi and Ajmer via Ranchi has been introduced to provide relief to travelers. This train is scheduled to operate weekly for a limited period during the peak winter season, offering an alternative option for passengers affected by delays and cancellations.
Delays at Delhi Railway Stations
According to official updates, more than sixty trains arriving at various railway stations in Delhi were reported to be running over two hours late. Dense fog conditions across northern states remain the primary reason behind these delays. Major stations in the national capital have been witnessing congestion, extended waiting times, and frequent schedule updates, making travel planning more complex for passengers.
Travel Advisory and Planning Suggestions
Railway officials have advised passengers to stay updated with real-time train status and follow official travel guidelines during the fog season. Travelers are encouraged to plan their journeys with buffer time, carry essential items such as food and water, and remain alert to schedule changes. Weather-related disruptions are expected to continue during winter mornings, making careful planning essential for a smoother travel experience.