The government has implemented a variety of measures to ensure that people with disabilities (PwDs) have equal access to transportation, including the Indian Railways. One such initiative is the provision of concessional fares for PwDs, which is a significant step towards inclusivity and accessibility. This blog provides a comprehensive guide on the concessional train tickets booking process for people with disabilities in India, covering eligibility criteria, documentation, the booking process, and additional benefits.
Understanding Concessional Travel for People with Disabilities
Concessional travel is vital for people with disabilities as it reduces the financial burden of transportation, allowing them to travel for education, employment, medical treatment, and other essential purposes. The Indian Railways, being one of the most extensive and affordable modes of transport in the country, plays a crucial role in ensuring that PwDs can travel with ease and dignity.
Eligibility Criteria for Concessional Travel
a. Categories of Disabilities Covered
Indian Railways offers concessional fares to individuals with the following types of disabilities:
- Orthopedically Handicapped: This includes people with locomotor disabilities, such as those who have lost a limb or have severe physical disabilities.
- Blindness/Low Vision: This category covers individuals who are completely blind or have low vision as certified by a medical authority.
- Hearing and Speech Impairment: Concessions are available for those with severe hearing impairment and speech disabilities.
- Mentally Retarded and Mentally Ill: This includes individuals with intellectual disabilities or mental illness, as certified by a medical professional.
- Deaf-Blind: Individuals who have both severe hearing and visual impairments are also eligible for concessional travel.
b. Percentage of Concessions
The percentage of concession varies depending on the type of disability and the class of travel. Here’s a general overview:
- Orthopedically Handicapped, Blind, and Mentally Retarded/Ill:
- 75% Concession on Second Class, Sleeper Class, First Class, AC Chair Car, AC 3-Tier, and AC 2-Tier.
- 50% Concession on First AC and Executive Class.
- Hearing and Speech Impaired:
- 50% Concession on Second Class, Sleeper Class, and First Class.
- 50% Concession on AC Chair Car and AC 3-Tier.
- 25% Concession on AC 2-Tier and First AC.
- Deaf-Blind:
- 50% Concession on Second Class, Sleeper Class, First Class, AC Chair Car, and AC 3-Tier.
- 50% Concession on AC 2-Tier and First AC.
Attendants travelling with PwDs are also eligible for concessions, which are generally the same as those granted to the person with disabilities.
3. Documentation Required for Concessional Booking
a. Disability Certificate
To avail of the concession, the individual must possess a valid Disability Certificate issued by a recognized medical authority. The certificate should clearly mention the type and extent of the disability and should be issued by a government hospital or an authorized medical board. The certificate must be in the prescribed format as per the guidelines set by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
b. Concession Certificate or Pass
In addition to the Disability Certificate, PwDs must obtain a Concession Certificate or Pass from the Indian Railways. This pass serves as proof of eligibility for concessional fares and must be presented at the time of booking tickets. The Concession Certificate can be obtained from the Chief Medical Superintendent (CMS) of the concerned division of Indian Railways.
c. Identity Proof
A valid government-issued identity proof, such as an Aadhaar card, Voter ID, or Passport, is also required during the booking process. This identity proof must match the details provided in the Disability Certificate and Concession Certificate.
Steps to Avail Concessional Booking for PwDs
a. Offline Booking Process
- Visit the Railway Reservation Counter: PwDs can visit any Indian Railways reservation counter to book their tickets. It is advisable to visit a counter that specifically caters to PwDs to ensure a smoother booking experience.
- Submission of Documents: Submit the Disability Certificate, Concession Certificate, and identity proof at the counter. The reservation clerk will verify these documents and apply the appropriate concession to the fare.
- Choose the Train and Class: Select the train and class of travel based on your preference. The reservation clerk will then check the availability of seats and confirm the booking with the concessional fare.
- Payment and Ticket Issuance: Pay the discounted fare to complete the booking process. The reservation clerk will issue the ticket, which will clearly mention the concessional fare and the category of disability.
- Collect the Ticket: Ensure that all details on the ticket are accurate, including the concession applied. The ticket must be kept safely and produced during the journey along with the Disability Certificate and identity proof.
b. Online Booking Process
Indian Railways has made significant strides in making the online booking process more accessible to PwDs. The following steps outline the online concessional booking process:
- Step 1: Create an account on the IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) website or mobile app. If you already have an account, ensure that your profile is updated with accurate details.
- Step 2: Once you login, enter your journey details, followed by selecting the Person with Disability Concession on the homepage. A pop message will appear on the screen, click on the OK button to proceed with the booking process.
- Step 3: Click on the search button to select your desired train.
- Step 4: A list of trains will appear on the screen. Click on the train availability and ticket price button to select the train based on your preferences.
- Step 5: Once you select the train, you will be redirected to the page where you need to enter passenger details.
- Step 6: After filling the details, a page will appear where you need to carefully read the details entered and click on the continue button.
- Step 7: A list of payment options will be displayed on the screen. Choose the desired payment method and click on the Pay Now button to proceed with the payment process.
- Step 8: Once the payment is done, confirmation page will be displayed on the screen with passenger and journey details for your reference.
Special Facilities and Services for PwDs in Indian Railways
a. Wheelchair Assistance
Indian Railways provides wheelchair assistance at major railway stations. PwDs can request a wheelchair either during the booking process or upon arrival at the station. Wheelchair services are usually provided free of charge, and attendants are available to assist passengers with disabilities.
b. Separate Reservation Counters
To make the booking process easier, Indian Railways has established separate reservation counters for PwDs at major stations. These counters are equipped with ramps, wider counters, and trained staff to assist with the booking process.
c. Priority Allotment of Lower Berths
PwDs are given priority for lower berths in sleeper and AC classes. During the booking process, the system automatically allots lower berths to passengers with disabilities, making it easier for them to board and deboard the train.
d. Accessible Toilets
Many trains are now equipped with accessible toilets that are spacious and designed to accommodate wheelchairs. These toilets have grab bars, non-slip flooring, and other features to ensure the safety and comfort of PwDs during their journey.
e. Assistance by Train Staff
Train staff are trained to assist PwDs during their journey. This includes helping them board the train by checking their PNR number and also help them in deboarding the train. The staff provides assistance with luggage, and ensuring that their needs are met throughout the journey.
Conclusion
The concessional booking process for people with disabilities in India is a critical aspect of making transportation more inclusive and accessible. While Indian Railways has taken significant steps in providing concessions and special services for PwDs, there is still room for improvement in terms of awareness, infrastructure, and digital accessibility. By understanding the eligibility criteria, documentation, and booking process, PwDs can take full advantage of the concessions available to them, making their travel experience more comfortable and affordable. If you are planning to travel from Delhi to Agra or any other cities across the country, visit the redRail website or application for a hassle-free booking experience.