In Chennai, trains heading to West Bengal are very crowded as many migrant workers are returning home to vote in the upcoming assembly elections on April 23 and 29. On Thursday evening, large numbers of families from West Bengal, who work in and around Chennai, gathered at Chennai Central railway station.
When the Howrah Mail arrived, railway protection force personnel managed the crowd and asked passengers to stand in queues before boarding. Only a few unreserved coaches were available, which made the situation more crowded and difficult for passengers.
Many of the workers said they are going back to their hometowns not only to vote but also to spend time with their families. For them, this is an important time to take part in the democratic process and stay connected with their roots.
The heavy rush at the station shows how important elections are for people, even if they are working far away from home. Authorities are trying to manage the crowds, but the large number of passengers has led to packed trains and busy platforms.