Indian Railway New Rule – If you also keep looking for a lower berth while traveling in a train, then now you need to be a little more cautious. Indian Railways has implemented a new rule regarding lower berths, which has been made especially keeping in mind the elderly, 45+ women and Divyang passengers. That is, now to get a lower berth, you will not only have to book early but also be in the right category.
Now not everyone will get a lower berth
Most of the people travelling by train demand the lower berth. Be it a night journey or a day journey – the lower berth is filled first. But now the railways have made it clear that the lower berth will be given only to those passengers who need it the most. That is, if you are a senior citizen, a woman above 45 years of age or a disabled person, then you will get the first priority. The rest may have to make do with the upper or middle berth.
How is the new quota system for lower berths?
Railways has implemented a special quota system for lower berths. 6 to 7 lower berths will be reserved in every coach in sleeper class, 4 to 5 in AC and 3 to 4 in second AC. These seats will be given through an automatic system to only those passengers who fall in the prescribed category – whether they have filled berth preference or not. That is, the system itself will decide who will get the lower seat.
Why did the Railways take this decision?
According to the railways, it is difficult for the elderly and women to climb to the upper berths. Whereas it is almost impossible for Divyang passengers to go to the upper berths. Therefore, the railways have decided that the lower berths will be reserved only for needy passengers. This will make their journey more comfortable and safe.
This is a big relief for women and the elderly
Earlier it often happened that women or elderly people would get upper berths and then they had to request the TC or other passengers to change their seat. But now this will not happen. The new system will automatically ensure that only the needy get the lower berth, so that they do not have to request again and again.
Will common passengers face problems?
Now the question arises that what if you do not fall in these categories, but you also need a lower berth? So the answer is – there can be some trouble. But if lower berths are available at the time of booking, then these seats can be available to other passengers as well. Also, if you book the ticket early and fill the berth preference correctly, then there is a possibility for you as well.
How will you avail the benefit of this facility?
If you are elderly (60+), female and your age is more than 45 years, or disabled, then you do not need to do anything special. If you leave the berth preference blank while booking the ticket, the system will automatically allot you a lower berth. If for some reason you are not getting this facility, then you can contact the station help desk or 139 helpline.
More changes are possible from the railways in the future
Railways is constantly updating its systems so that passengers can get better facilities. Digital ticketing, paperless boarding and now this berth allocation system – all these are steps taken in that direction. In the coming time, more facilities can be added which will give priority to the safety and convenience of especially women, senior citizens and disabled passengers.
Disclaimer
This article is based on public news and recent updates related to railways. For accurate information regarding booking or berths before any journey, it is best to contact the official website of Indian Railways or helpline number 139.
