GUWAHATI: The Indian Railways have started operating 'Shramik Special' trains from 1st May to facilitate the movement of migrant workers, pilgrims, tourists, students and other people who are stranded in different states during the lockdown period.
These special trains are to be provided on request of both the state governments which will be sending and receiving the people.
“These special trains will be run from point to point on the request of both the concerned state governments as per the standard protocols for sending and receiving such stranded persons. The Railways and state governments shall appoint senior officials as Nodal Officers for coordination and smooth operation of these ‘Shramik Specials’,” stated an official statement.
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“On arrival at the destination, passengers will be received by the state government which will make all arrangements for their screening, quarantine if necessary and further travel from the railway station,” the statement added.
Reportedly, there is a superfast charge of Rs. 30 and addition charge of Rs. 20 for the Sleeper Mail Express train which includes meals and drinking water for long-distance trains. However, the tickets are free of charge and will be paid by the state government.
Six of these trains made the first journeys on 1st May which includes Lingampalli to Hatia, Aluva to Bhubaneswar, Nasik to Lucknow, Nasik to Bhopal, Jaipur to Patna and Kota to Hatia.
However, it will be mandatory for the travellers to follow all hygiene and sanitization measures.
