Train journeys are among the most comfortable and convenient modes of transportation in India. To ensure everyone can enjoy the services provided by Indian Railways, the government offers a range of concessions, booking provisions, and assistance services for persons with disabilities. 

 

However, to make full use of these facilities, it is important to first understand the eligibility criteria, required documents, and the booking process.

Understanding Concessional Travel for People with Disabilities

The Indian Railways provides concessional fares for differently-abled individuals to make travel inclusive in India. In addition to concessions, PwDs can also avail of benefits such as assistance from train staff, special toilets, reserved seating, and much more. 

 

Know that these special facilities and services provided for persons with disabilities in Indian railways can vary depending on the type and severity of the disability.

Concessional booking is a beneficial facility for differently-abled people, but it is not automatic. Passengers must provide valid documents and follow a specific process to claim the benefit. Let’s start with the eligibility criteria for claiming such concessions.

 

Categories of Disabilities Covered

At present, railway concessions for handicapped and persons with other disabilities are available for four categories, including: 

• Visual impairment (completely blind or partially blind).

• Hearing and speech impairment.

• Orthopaedic disabilities (mobility-related impairments).

• Intellectual disabilities.

Here’s how train fare for handicapped and persons with other impairments varies depending on the type of disability and the class of travel: 

 

Documents Required for Concessional Booking

To avail the benefits provided by the Indian Railways for PwDs, it is important to present the following documents:

 

• Disability Certificate

The person must provide a valid disability certificate issued by a recognised medical authority. The disability certificate must clearly mention the type and percentage of disability.

 

• Concession Certificate for Pass

A concession certificate, a train pass for persons with disabilities, or an IRCTC disability card may also be issued. These authorise the passenger to avail themselves of concession fares, including details on services such as eligibility for an escort and other important information.

 

• Valid Identity Proof

Passengers must carry a valid identity proof issued by the Government of India at the time of booking and travel. Any identity proof, such as an Aadhaar card, voter ID, PAN card, passport, or driving licence, can work.

Concessional tickets for PwDs can be booked through both online and offline methods. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide for both methods:

Offline Method

• Step 1: Visit the nearest railway station and head to the ticket reservation counter.

• Step 2: Ask for a ticket reservation form and fill in the travel details, including boarding and destination station, date of journey, and passenger’s details. 

• Step 3: Make sure to mention the requirement for a concession and submit the disability certificate and valid ID proof.

• Step 4: Submit the form and pay the concession fare amount to book your tickets.

• Step 5: Upon successful payment, collect the printed ticket from the counter.

Online Method

Here’s a guide for online train ticket booking for handicapped with redRail to avail concessional fares:

 

• Step 1: Go to the redBus website or mobile app and navigate to the “Train Ticket” option.  You can also download the redRail mobile app.

• Step 2: Enter important details like source, destination, and travel date. Then click on the “Search Trains” option to view available trains.

• Step 3: Choose a train that suits your schedule and select the preferred travel class.

• Step 4: To proceed, you first need to sign in using your IRCTC username and password.

• Step 5: Fill in the passenger details, such as name, age, and gender.

• Step 6: Select the “Person with Disability (Divyangjan)” concession option, and fill in the required details from your disability certificate, such as ID, card number, date of birth, etc.

• Step 7: Choose your preferred payment method from UPI, card, net banking, or wallet. Complete the payment on the portal.

• Step 8: Upon successful payment, your E-Ticket, along with PNR details, will be generated and shared through your registered mobile number and email.

Indian Railways has introduced several facilities and services to make train journeys more accessible, affordable, and comfortable for people with special needs. Here are a few services and facilities that you may expect:

 

• Wheelchair Assistance at Station

Wheelchair assistance is available at many major railway stations, either free of charge or for a nominal fee. Passengers can request wheelchair assistance either at enquiry counters or by booking in advance through helplines.

 

• Separate Reservation Counters

Many railway stations have a dedicated reservation counter for persons with disabilities. These counters are designed to reduce waiting time and provide a more comfortable booking experience.

 

• Priority Allotment of Lower Berths

Indian Railways prioritises the allotment of lower berths for persons with special needs. However, to claim such facilities, passengers must indicate their preference and mention their disability.

 

• Accessible Toilets in Trains

Several steps have been taken to improve the accessibility of toilets for persons with disabilities. Some trains might also have special toilets for PwDs with wider doors, support rails, and improved layout.

 

• Assistance by Train Staff

The train staff is available to assist persons with special needs. From helping passengers board and deboard trains to guiding them to their seats, the staff is mostly well-trained.

In Conclusion

Travelling by train can be made significantly easier for persons with disabilities when the right information and documentation are in place. By understanding eligibility, preparing the required documents, and choosing the appropriate booking method, passengers can make the most of the concessions and facilities offered by Indian Railways.