General Coach Shortage Hits Train Passengers During Dasara Rush

With the Dasara festival approaching, passenger traffic from Hyderabad to various hometowns is increasing. However, limited general coaches on several trains departing from the city’s major railway stations are causing inconvenience to ordinary travellers, while AC coaches appear to receive greater priority. Since train fares are generally lower than private bus services and RTC buses, many low-income and lower-middle-class families prefer rail travel to reduce their travel expenses. Passengers travelling from Kacheguda, Secunderabad, Nampally, Cherlapally and Lingampally have raised concerns over the limited availability of general coaches on busy routes.

General-class tickets are more affordable than sleeper and AC fares, making them an important option for economically weaker passengers. The shortage of general coaches has prompted criticism across the country. In response, the Railway Board reportedly directed that every express train must have at least four general coaches. However, passengers say the number of coaches should be increased further in line with festival demand to make rail travel more accessible and ease overcrowding.