Ten trains, including the prominent Vande Bharat Express, have been canceled, while the routes of 35 others have been changed. An additional 14 train services are expected to face disruptions.
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — The Ram Temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya on January 22 has led to the suspension and rerouting of several long-distance trains for a week starting Tuesday (January 16).
Indian Railways attributes the disruption to the prioritised efforts of doubling and electrifying single tracks. However, alternative sources suggest that the main reason behind the service alterations is the temple’s inauguration.
Ten trains, including the prominent Vande Bharat Express, have been canceled, while the routes of 35 others, including Doon Express, have been changed. An additional 14 train services are expected to face disruptions.
Rekha Sharma, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of Northern Railway, confirmed the closure of these services until January 22. The ongoing extensive track doubling and electrification work leading to Ayodhya is cited as a crucial preparation for the anticipated surge in passenger traffic post the temple inauguration.
Indian Railways had already adjusted its schedule for Ayodhya-bound trains to meet the rising demand for tickets well before the official announcement on Monday. Union Minister of State for Railways Darshana Zardosh emphasised the railways’ commitment to facilitate travel for devotees, announcing changes in the timetable to accommodate increased demand.
Ahead of the temple inauguration concerns are emerging about potential overcrowding and security issues in trains. The BJP-led central and state governments are capitalising on the event ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, fostering nationwide excitement. The surge in Hindu devotees traveling to Ayodhya has raised fears of potential mischievous activities by anti-social elements.
In response to the political developments, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board has cautioned Muslims against participating in celebrations involving idolatrous practices or lighting lamps. The board’s president, Maulana Khalid Saifullah Rahmani, condemned the construction of the temple in place of a mosque, calling it a “murder of justice and secularism.” He also criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s endorsement of the temple inauguration.
