Indian Railways (IR) is making train journeys more convenient and comfortable for passengers.
Recent initiatives include simplified online ticket booking and redeveloped railway stations aimed at improving overall passenger experience.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated in Rajya Sabha on December 5 that modern coaches have been designed to enhance safety and comfort, with clearly marked entry and exit doors in reserved coaches for easier navigation.
Lower Berth Allotment and Senior Citizen Benefits
For travelers, the lower berth is often the preferred choice.
Indian Railways has introduced several rules to make lower berth access easier:
Automatic Lower Berth Assignment: Senior citizens and women aged 45+ are automatically allotted lower berths if available, even without a specific request.
Designated Quotas: Sleeper, 3AC, and 2AC classes have a combined quota for senior citizens, women 45+, and pregnant women, varying by coach and class.
Disability Quota: Persons with Disabilities (PwD) and their attendants have reserved berths:
Sleeper & 3AC/3E: Four berths (two lower, two middle)
2S/CC: Four seats
Vacancy Priority: If lower berths become vacant during the journey, they are given priority for senior citizens, PwD, or pregnant women.
Facilities for Divyangjan Passengers
Indian Railways is also improving accessibility for Divyangjan passengers:
Dedicated Compartments: Most Mail/Express trains now have specially designed coaches with wider doors, berths, and lavatories with grab rails.
Wheelchair Support: Designated wheelchair parking areas and modular ramps are provided in modern trains like Amrit Bharat and Vande Bharat for easy boarding and deboarding.
Braille Signage: Integrated Braille scripts help visually impaired passengers navigate train coaches and facilities.
Modern Train Design: Vande Bharat trains feature accessible toilets and wheelchair spaces in the first and last coaches, while Amrit Bharat trains follow Divyangjan-friendly design principles.
Indian Railways’ new measures aim to ensure comfort, safety, and accessibility for all passengers, with special focus on senior citizens, women, pregnant women, and Divyangjan travelers.
These changes make train travel in India more convenient, inclusive, and enjoyable for everyone.
