Indian railway: Indian Railways runs several schemes for the convenience of passengers. Especially some special facilities are provided for the elderly i.e. senior citizens. So that their journey is comfortable and easy. However, some time ago the Railways had stopped the concession in the rent, but the remaining facilities are still going on. Indian Railways has provided many facilities for senior citizens such as lower births, wheelchairs, battery -powered vehicles and special ticket counters. But the fare concession is currently closed and there is no plan to resume it. Railways are constantly trying to increase the convenience of passengers so that the elderly do not have any problem in traveling.
Special facilities of railway for elderly passengers
1. Lower berth facility
Men above 60 years of age and women above 58 years of age are given a lower seat in the train so that they do not have trouble climbing and landing. This feature is available in sleeper, AC3 Tier and AC2 Tier coaches. After the train is left, if a lower seat remains vacant, then it is given to a senior citizen.
2. wheelchair facility
Free wheelchair facility is provided at railway stations. This feature is beneficial for the elderly who have difficulty in walking. Along with the wheelchair, the porter is also available for help.
3. Special Ticket Counter
Separate ticket booking counters have been set up for elderly and disabled passengers at railway stations. This relieves them from standing in long queues and gives them tickets quickly.
4. Battery powered vehicle (golf cart)
Battery -powered vehicles (golf carts) are available free of cost at large railway stations. This facility is provided to the elderly and the disabled to reach the platform, so that they do not have to walk too much.
5. Special seats in local trains
Separate seats are reserved for senior citizens in local trains in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai. This gives them a comfortable seat during the journey.
Will the fare discount start again or not?
Earlier, men above 60 years of age got 40% and women above 58 years of age got 50% discount. But in 2020, the discount was discontinued during the Korona epidemic and it has not been resumed yet. Many senior citizens and social organizations are demanding to resume it, but the Railways says that the concession in fares will affect the revenue of the railway.
