As summer vacation crowds intensify, Indian Railways has moved quickly to ensure safety at its busiest stations. From April 18 to May 15, 2025, Central Railways has suspended the sale of platform tickets at four key stations to manage growing foot traffic and reduce congestion.
The move is aimed at minimizing risks and ensuring smooth passenger movement during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Which Stations Are Affected?
The ban on platform tickets applies to the following major railway terminals under Central Railways:
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Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) – Mumbai
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Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) – Mumbai
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Kalyan Railway Station
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Pune Junction
These locations are some of the busiest in the country, witnessing lakhs of daily passengers. The restriction is seen as a preventive measure to avoid crowd-related incidents and ensure smoother operations.
Why Has This Step Been Taken?
Indian Railways has proactively taken this decision after witnessing a stampede-like situation at New Delhi Railway Station earlier this year during Maha Kumbh. With similar crowd surges expected in cities like Ahmedabad, Chennai, Lucknow, Bangalore, and Surat, more stations may adopt this policy soon.
This temporary suspension aims to reduce unnecessary footfall inside station premises by restricting non-travelers.
Are There Any Exemptions?
Yes. The following individuals may still enter the platforms if they are accompanying someone and purchase a ticket on their behalf:
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Senior citizens
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Children or those who are unable to navigate alone
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Uneducated travelers
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Women needing assistance
In such cases, only one caretaker may accompany the traveler, and they will still need to buy a platform ticket unless exempted.
This ensures that necessary support for vulnerable travelers is maintained without compromising safety.
FAQs
When will the platform ticket ban be enforced?
The ban will be in effect from April 18 to May 15, 2025, across select Central Railway stations.
Which stations are affected by the rule?
Platform tickets will not be sold at CSMT, LTT, Kalyan, and Pune stations during this period.
Why is this restriction being implemented?
The measure is being taken to control excessive crowds and ensure safety at high-traffic stations during summer vacation.
Can anyone still enter the platform with a ticket?
Yes, exemptions are provided for those assisting elderly, sick, or dependent individuals, but they must still buy a platform ticket unless otherwise allowed.
Will other cities also adopt this rule?
Possibly. Stations in Delhi, Chennai, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad are expected to consider similar restrictions depending on crowd levels.
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