Services scheduled to arrive at New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin stations between 4 AM and 2 PM have been cancelled at their originating stations, prompting passengers to verify train status before travelling
Indian Railways has cancelled mail and express trains scheduled to arrive at New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) and Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station (NZM) between 4 AM and 2 PM on Saturday, October 10, 2026. The decision was taken in view of the possibility of severe road traffic congestion around the two major railway stations in the national capital.
According to a railway order issued on October 9, the cancellations apply to trains departing from their originating stations after 2 PM on Friday and scheduled to reach either NDLS or NZM during the specified time window on Saturday. The affected services will be cancelled at their source stations rather than being terminated after entering the Delhi railway network.
The move could disrupt travel plans for passengers arriving in the capital for work, business, examinations, medical appointments and other commitments. Travellers connecting to flights, buses or onward trains may also need to reconsider their schedules.
Which Trains Are Affected?
The cancellation order covers mail and express trains scheduled to arrive at New Delhi Railway Station and Hazrat Nizamuddin between 4 AM and 2 PM on October 10. The order specifies the affected arrival window, rather than indicating that every train operating to or through Delhi will be cancelled throughout the day.
Passengers should not assume that all Delhi-bound services are affected. The status of individual trains depends on their scheduled arrival times and the railway order applicable to each service. Travellers should check their train number and journey details through official railway information channels before leaving home.
Why Has Indian Railways Taken This Decision?
The Railways cited the possibility of heavy road traffic congestion around NDLS and NZM as the reason for the cancellations. Both stations are important passenger hubs, handling substantial intercity and long-distance rail traffic.
The decision comes amid planned demonstrations in New Delhi against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, with protests expected at Jantar Mantar. However, Indian Railways has not confirmed that the cancellations are directly linked to the planned protests. The stated reason in the railway order is the possibility of severe traffic congestion around the stations.
The distinction is important because passengers should rely on the official operational notice rather than assume a direct connection between the demonstrations and the cancellation decision.
What Passengers Should Do Before Travelling
Passengers with journeys planned for October 10 should verify the latest operational status before starting their trips. The National Train Enquiry System (NTES) can be used to check train-running information, while railway helpline 139 is available for enquiries about services and cancellations.
Travellers should also check their booking details and any applicable cancellation or refund information through official railway channels. Those travelling for time-sensitive appointments should consider alternative arrangements only after confirming the status of their booked train.
Passengers heading to the railway stations by road should allow additional time because traffic congestion is among the concerns cited in the order. They should also monitor official updates for any subsequent changes to train operations.
Potential Impact on Travel and Business Activity
The cancellations could affect passengers travelling to Delhi from different parts of the country, particularly those whose trains fall within the specified arrival window. Disruptions may also affect connecting journeys, hotel bookings and scheduled business meetings.
For businesses and professionals relying on rail connectivity, the immediate concern will be uncertainty over arrival times and the availability of alternative travel options. The broader impact will depend on the number of services affected, passenger volumes and whether further operational changes are announced.