Indian Railways has taken a significant step towards improving the travel experience for senior citizens and women passengers by introducing a new policy to automatically allocate lower berths to ladies above 45 years old and gentlemen above 60. This initiative aims to provide a more comfortable and accessible travel experience for vulnerable passengers.
The new policy includes several key features designed to enhance passenger comfort and accessibility:
- Dedicated Quota: A specific number of lower berths are reserved for senior citizens, women, and persons with disabilities in each coach. The quota varies by class:
- Sleeper Class: 6-7 lower berths per coach
- Air-Conditioned 3-Tier (3AC): 4-5 lower berths per coach
- Air-Conditioned 2-Tier (2AC): 3-4 lower berths per coach
- Automatic Allocation: The system will automatically assign lower berths to eligible passengers during ticket booking, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
- Priority for Vacant Lower Berths: If a lower berth becomes vacant, priority will be given to senior citizens, pregnant women, and individuals with disabilities who may have been allotted middle or upper berths.
The new policy offers several benefits for passengers, including:
- Increased Accessibility: The policy aims to improve accessibility and safety for vulnerable passengers, including senior citizens, women, and persons with disabilities.
- Enhanced Comfort: Lower berths will provide easier access to amenities and reduce the risk of falls, making travel more comfortable for eligible passengers.
- Streamlined Reservation Process: The automatic allocation system will simplify the reservation process and ensure that eligible passengers are assigned lower berths whenever possible.
Indian Railways also provides special provisions for persons with disabilities, including:
- Reserved Berths: Specific reservations are available for individuals with disabilities on all mail and express trains, including Rajdhani and Shatabdi trains.
- Quota: A quota of 4 berths in Sleeper Class, 4 berths in 3AC/3E, and 4 seats in Reserved Second Sitting or Air-Conditioned Chair Car is reserved for persons with disabilities.
The new lower berth allocation policy is a significant step towards enhancing passenger comfort and accessibility. By providing dedicated quotas, automatic allocation, and priority for vacant lower berths, Indian Railways is committed to making travel more comfortable and convenient for senior citizens, women, and persons with disabilities.
