Indian Railways (IR), the national transporter, has introduced several measures, including simplifying online ticket booking and redeveloping railway stations. According to Indian Express, the steps have been introduced to add to the passenger experience. However, as the lower berth is the preferred option for a train journey, travellers should remember a few rules.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, in a written statement in Rajya Sabha on December 5, said, “Various types of coaches, which are designed and developed to enhance the safety and passenger experience have been provided.”
He added, “In reserved coaches, entry and exit doors are marked. These signages with ‘Entry’ and ‘Exit’ are provided adjacent to Body Side Entrance doors. In general coaches, entry and exit can be done from any of the door.”
Lower berth senior citizen quota in the railway
- Automatic lower berth allotment: Senior citizens and female passengers aged 45 and older are automatically assigned a lower berth, even without a specific request, if one is available.
- Designated quotas: A combined quota of lower berths is reserved in Sleeper, 3AC, and 2AC classes for senior citizens, women 45+, and pregnant women (with the number of berths varying by coach/class).
- Disability quota: A specific reservation quota is earmarked for Persons with Disabilities (PwD) and their attendants in all mail/express trains (including Rajdhani/Shatabdi):
- 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 prioritised for senior citizens, PwD, or pregnant women who were originally assigned a middle or upper berth.
Facilities available for Dibyangjan in trains:
- Dedicated compartments: Most Mail/Express trains feature a separate, specially designed compartment for Divyangjan. These coaches offer:
- Wider doors, berths, and compartments.
- Larger lavatories with wider doors and additional grab rails for support.
- Wash basins and mirrors placed at an accessible height.
- Designated wheelchair parking areas.
- Aids for visually impaired: Integrated Braille Signage (Braille scripts superimposed on standard signs) is installed to assist visually impaired passengers.
- New train design: Modern trains like Amrit Bharat and Vande Bharat are designed with Divyangjan needs in mind:
- Vande Bharat: The first and last coaches have special provisions, including wheelchair space and Divyangjan-friendly, wider toilets.
- Amrit Bharat & Vande Bharat: Modular ramps are provided in the designated coaches to facilitate easy boarding and de-boarding for persons with restricted mobility.