Surat: Western Railway has temporarily suspended the sale of platform tickets at four major stations to manage expected crowds during the upcoming festive season. The Railways stated that this measure aims to reduce overcrowding on platforms and ensure smooth passenger movement within station premises. The restrictions will be in place from October 15 to 31 at Bandra Terminus in Mumbai, and at Vapi, Udhna, and Surat stations in Gujarat, according to an official statement.

The statement added that exemptions will be provided for genuine cases, including those assisting senior citizens, women, differently-abled individuals (divyanjan), illiterate passengers, or anyone requiring special attention.

Last October, during the festive travel rush, nine passengers were injured in a stampede at Bandra railway station while trying to board a train. Similarly, this year, Surat and Udhna stations are witnessing crowds of thousands of passengers daily, traveling toward northern states such as Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand for Diwali and Chhath Puja celebrations.

Western Railway Chief Public Relations Officer Vineet Abhishek said the decision is aimed at ensuring safe and smooth passenger movement within station premises during the busy festive period.

Passengers have been advised to plan their journeys in advance and cooperate with railway staff to facilitate effective crowd management and safety. DeshGujarat