India, Nov. 7 -- Despite the Railway Ministry's claim of operating 18,000 special train trips across the country to clear the festive rush, regular trains continue to be in much greater demand, with waiting lists often exceeding the permissible limit and ticket-booking websites displaying the 'Regret' status.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Saturday during a media interaction that all trains were being monitored closely through a special War Room set up at Rail Bhawan to ensure their safe and timely arrival at destinations.

However, railway officials admit that passengers don't prefer special trains due to their higher fares, longer journey times and poor punctuality.

The IRCTC website shows that regular trains on almost all ...