Special trains run by East Central Railway (ECR) have failed to cope with the rush of students and holidaymakers headed towards Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore and Hyderabad among other places.

All trains are running packed to capacity. Waiting lists have crossed more than 200 on trains like Patna Secunderabad Superfast Express (12792) and Sanghamitra Express (12296) that goes to Bangalore. The rush of admission-seekers and tourists on vacation is being cited as the main reason for this rush. Even waiting list tickets are unavailable till the end of June.

Snaking queues can be seen in front of ticket counters at Patna Junction. On reaching the counter, they are disappointed not getting berths to their desired destinations.

The sultry heat is checking the patience of perspiring people waiting to buy tickets. Such was the desperation that some told The Telegraph that they were ready to travel on the train floor if the railways allow them to do so. “As no confirmed ticket is available, I am ready to travel and sleep on the floor. I just want to reach my destination at any cost,” said Ravindra Kumar, a resident of Rajiv Nagar.

The most affected are the students and admission-seekers. “Forget the AC classes, tickets are not available even for sleeper. I was shocked to know that no berth is available on Rajdhani Express in any class. I could not even opt for Sampoorna Kranti Express (12393). I am wondering how to get a confirmed ticket for Delhi as I have to go there for admission,” said Rakesh Sharma, who just passed CBSE Class XII.

Even special trains were not of much help. An engineering student from Hyderabad, Vineet Saxena, said: “The only train going to Hyderabad is packed with passengers. I am left with the option of taking help of touts.”

Many passengers were found stranded at Patna Junction in the hope of getting a Tatkal ticket.