With the arrival of the New Year, a chain of joyous festivals has begun gracing homes across India. The first major festival of the year, Makar Sankranti (celebrated as Pongal in the South), holds special significance nationwide and falls on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.

In the capital city of Bengaluru, thousands of people plan to travel back to their hometowns for family gatherings, kite-flying, traditional feasts, and harvest rituals. Shining Diva Fashion 18 Pairs Combo Earring Set Latest Stylish Western Earrings for Women and Girls (15844er)

Anticipating this huge surge in passenger traffic, South Western Railway (SWR) has offered a delightful 'Sankranti festival gift' to commuters by announcing additional special trains.

Benefits for Passengers:

Crowd Management: Regular trains often sell out quickly during festivals, leading to long waitlists and overcrowding. These specials reduce pressure, making travel smoother and more comfortable.Also Read: Tesla to Debut in Bengaluru: Silicon Valley of India Set for First Iconic Showroom!

Regional Connectivity: Beyond Talaguppa, the trains benefit thousands in intermediate areas like Shivamogga, Sagar, Tumakuru, and surrounding districts with direct access.

Support for Sabarimala Devotees: With the auspicious Makar Jyoti darshan at Sabarimala coinciding with Makar Sankranti, these extra services also aid Ayyappa pilgrims traveling through Karnataka routes.Also Read: Bengaluru Railway Update: Station Changes, Temporary Hardship for Passengers..!

Overall, this timely initiative by the Railway Department has brought smiles to festival-goers' faces. Amid rising private bus fares that burden common people, these special trains offer affordable, safe, and reliable travel options, ensuring everyone can enjoy the Sankranti celebrations without travel worries.Also Read: ‘Daddy’s Home’: HD Kumaraswamy’s AI-Generated ‘Toxic’ Style Entry Goes Viral, Sparking Political Buzz!