Indore-Delhi trains cancelled; Rajdhani, August Kranti Express delayed by 5 hours ahead of CJP Protest: Ratlam Division PRO
Major trains including Rajdhani and August Kranti Express face delays or cancellations ahead of the CJP protest in Delhi.
Travel plans for hundreds of passengers connecting Madhya Pradesh and the national capital have been thrown into chaos following a series of sudden train cancellations and delays. The Ratlam Division has confirmed that several services between Indore and Delhi have been halted, while premium trains like the Rajdhani Express are facing significant setbacks.
Major Cancellations and Delays Reported
According to Mukesh Kumar, the Public Relations Officer for the Ratlam Division, the disruptions are due to various operational reasons. The changes specifically impact services originating from Indore and Dr. Ambedkar Nagar, as well as several trains passing through the division.
Cancelled Services:
- Train No. 20155: Dr. Ambedkar Nagar to Indore
- Train No. 09309: Indore to New Delhi Special
- Train No. 12415: Indore to New Delhi Express
- Yuva Express: Service to Delhi has also been cancelled.
Rescheduled Premium Trains:
In addition to the cancellations, two high-profile services departing from Mumbai Central on October 9 have been rescheduled. The 12951 Rajdhani Express and the 12953 August Kranti Express are expected to run approximately five hours behind their original schedule. Authorities have assured passengers with confirmed reservations that they will be eligible for a full refund due to these service changes.
Security Concerns and Delhi Protest Impact
The sudden shifts in railway operations come on the heels of a proposed protest by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar on October 10. The group is planning to demonstrate against alleged vote theft and demand accountability from Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
In response to intelligence inputs and traffic advisories, Indian Railways has taken preemptive measures to manage potential congestion. Sources indicate that Mail and Express trains scheduled to arrive at New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin railway stations between 4 AM and 2 PM on October 10 may be cancelled. This decision specifically targets trains that departed their origin stations after 2 PM on October 9.
Heightened Security in the Capital
The Delhi Police have officially denied permission for the CJP demonstration. The denial is reportedly based on several factors, including:
- The short notice provided for the protest.
- Previous instances of non-compliance with official directions.
- Significant concerns regarding public safety, law and order, and massive traffic congestion.
As a precautionary measure, security has been significantly bolstered at several entry points and borders of Delhi to prevent any disruption to the city's movement during the period of the proposed demonstration.