Bhubaneswar, October 13: In view of the expected surge in passenger traffic during the upcoming Durga Puja and Diwali festivities, special trains will operate between Sambalpur and Santragachi to accommodate the additional rush and ensure convenient travel for passengers.

Train No.08303 Sambalpur–Santragachi Special will depart from Sambalpur at 4:15 PM every Wednesday from October 14 to October 21, 2026, and reach Santragachi at 2:00 AM the following day.

In the return direction, Train No.08304 Santragachi–Sambalpur Special will leave Santragachi at 7:05 PM every Thursday from October 15 to October 22, 2026, and arrive at Sambalpur at 7:45 AM the following day.

The special trains will halt at key stations along the route, including Rengali, Jharsuguda Junction, Raj Gangpur, Rourkela, Chakradharpur, Tatanagar Junction, Kharagpur Junction and Ulubaria. Additional stoppages have been arranged at Bagdihi, Bamra, Garpos, Bisra, Manoharpur, Rajkharsawan Junction, Jhargram, Panskura and Bagnan to improve passenger convenience.

Coach Composition

Each special train will have a total of 21 coaches, comprising:

• AC 3-Tier: 6 coaches
• AC 2-Tier: 2 coaches
• Sleeper Class: 7 coaches
• General Class: 4 coaches
• Luggage-cum-Generator-cum-Brake Vans with Divyang-friendly facilities: 2 coaches

Passengers planning to travel during the festive season are advised to check the latest train timings, stoppages and other relevant details through official railway channels before commencing their journey.