Indian Railways new rules: Indian Railways has introduced a helpful update for millions of passengers, especially senior citizens, women above 45, and differently-abled travellers. The new rule focuses on making train journeys safer, more comfortable, and more accessible for those who need extra support. Under this change, eligible passengers will now receive automatic lower berths during ticket booking, even if they don’t select the lower berth option manually.
Automatic Lower Berth Allotment for Senior Citizens & Women
The railway ministry confirmed that senior citizens, women aged 45 years and above, and pregnant women will be given priority for lower berths. The allotment depends on seat availability, but the system will automatically try to assign a lower berth to eligible passengers.
Reserved Quota for Lower Berths
Railways already keeps specific lower berths reserved in different classes:
- Sleeper Class: 6–7 lower berths
- 3AC: 4–5 lower berths
- 2AC: 3–4 lower berths
These berths are specially reserved for senior citizens, women, and pregnant women to ensure a more comfortable journey.
Special Reservation for Differently-Abled Passengers
Indian Railways continues to upgrade travel facilities for differently-abled passengers as well. In all Mail and Express trains, including Rajdhani and Shatabdi, special berths are reserved for them and their attendants.
Reserved Seats for Differently-Abled
- Sleeper & 3AC/3E: Total 4 berths (2 lower + 2 middle)
- 2S & AC Chair Car: 4 seats reserved
If any berth remains vacant during the journey, the TTE will first offer it to senior citizens, pregnant women, or differently-abled passengers who are travelling on upper or middle berths. This ensures maximum comfort and safety for those who need it most.
Upgraded Coaches for Better Comfort
To make travel easier for elderly and differently-abled passengers, Railways has modernised its coaches with many new features:
- Wider doors for easy movement
- Spacious compartments
- Broader and stronger berths
- Bigger washrooms with wheelchair-friendly space
- Grab rails on walls for support
- Wash basins and mirrors placed at comfortable height
These upgrades help passengers move safely inside the coach without discomfort.
Braille Signs for Visually Impaired Travellers
Railways has also added Braille-enabled sign boards inside coaches so that visually impaired passengers can locate seats, toilets, and instructions easily.
Vande Bharat & Amrit Bharat Trains Designed for Accessibility
The latest Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat trains come with special accessible features. The first and last coaches have:
- Wheelchair-accessible seats
- Accessible washrooms
- Extra comfortable seating options
These changes make long-distance travel stress-free and inclusive for everyone.