Western Railway is introducing a new facility that is likely the first of its kind in India. Similar to services at airports, elderly passengers, people with disabilities,
and those carrying heavy luggage can now book a helper or porter in advance.
Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Pankaj Kumar Singh shared in Surat that this kind of help was needed at many stations but wasn’t available until now.
There had been repeated requests from senior citizens and wheelchair users for such a service.
Easy Booking — Just 30 Minutes Before Arrival
To meet this demand, the Mumbai Division has started a new service. Passengers can now book an assistant through an online portal, mobile app, or even a phone call.
If the booking is made at least 30 minutes before the train arrives at the station, an assistant wearing a uniform will be ready with a trolley to help. This service is designed similar to the assistance provided at airports.
Currently, the service is available at Valsad station, and it will soon begin at Vapi and Vasai Road stations.
These stations previously had no porters or helpers, so this new feature will bring major relief to travelers.
The DRM mentioned that this is a first-time initiative by Indian Railways and addresses an important need.
Benefits for Travelers and Summer Travel Plans
This service will mainly benefit elderly passengers, disabled individuals, and those carrying large amounts of luggage.
Looking ahead to the summer vacation season, the DRM highlighted that the Surat and Udaipur regions are key areas with high passenger traffic.
As during festivals like Holi and Kumbh Mela, special trains will also run during the summer holidays. Surat station is also undergoing redevelopment work.
Although some trains were delayed recently due to a traffic block, they have resumed service since April.
The Western Railway is announcing summer special trains in phases, with notifications already released for April, May, and June.
As soon as the Western Railway Headquarters issues instructions, the Mumbai Division will put them into action.
Efforts are being made to avoid overcrowding at Surat station. For this purpose, holding areas have been set up where passengers can sit in an organized way.
The DRM assured that even with the expected rush in the Surat-Udaipur area, passengers will receive better and more comfortable facilities.
