Indian Railways has updated several rules to make train travel more comfortable and convenient for passengers.
These changes focus especially on senior citizens, women above 45 years, pregnant women, visually impaired passengers, and people with disabilities. Several new facilities have been introduced to support them.
Automatic Lower Berth Allotment
If you are a senior citizen, a woman above 45 years of age, or a pregnant woman, you will now get a lower berth automatically—based on availability—even if you did not select it during ticket booking. This is helpful for passengers who find it difficult to climb upper berths.
Railways has also reserved specific lower berths in each coach:
Sleeper Class: 6–7 lower berths
3AC: 4–5 lower berths
2AC: 3–4 lower berths
The exact number may change depending on the number of coaches in the train.
Special Quota for Disabled Passengers
Indian Railways has reserved a special quota for disabled passengers and their attendants on all Mail and Express trains, including premium trains like Rajdhani and Shatabdi. Seats are available in different classes:
Sleeper Class: 4 berths (2 lower + 2 middle)
3AC/3E: 4 berths (2 lower + 2 middle)
Second Sitting (2S) & AC Chair Car (CC): 4 seats
Dedicated Coaches for Disabled Passengers
Most Mail and Express trains now include specially designed coaches for disabled passengers. These coaches have:
Wide doors for wheelchairs
Spacious berths
Comfortable and accessible toilets
Grab rails
Wheelchair parking spaces
Washbasins and mirrors at proper height
Braille Signboards for Visually Impaired Passengers
To help visually impaired passengers, Railways has introduced signboards with Braille markings. This makes it easier for them to locate important areas and facilities inside the train.
Modern Accessibility Features in New Trains
The latest Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat trains come with advanced accessibility features. The first and last coaches of Vande Bharat trains have wheelchair-accessible spaces. These trains also provide:
Specially designed toilets
Ramps for easy boarding and exiting
Marked entry and exit doors for better guidance
Railways is continuously improving coach designs to enhance passenger safety and overall travel experience.
