Indian Railways has affirmed its policy of automatically allotting lower berths to key vulnerable groups, including senior citizens, women above 45, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities, based on availability during the booking process.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted these provisions in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha on December 5, 2025, detailing the specific quotas and ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility across the rail network.
Automatic Allotment and Quota Details
The Railways’ computerised reservation system is programmed to prioritise the allocation of lower berths to eligible passengers even if they do not explicitly select the option while booking. This initiative is designed to ensure a more comfortable journey for those who might struggle to climb to middle or upper berths.
The combined quota of reserved lower berths per coach varies by class:
- Sleeper Class: Six to seven lower berths.
- Air-Conditioned 3 Tier (3AC/3E): Four to five lower berths.
- Air-Conditioned 2 Tier (2AC): Three to four lower berths.
These berths are specifically earmarked for senior citizens (men over 60, women over 45), pregnant women, and persons with disabilities. Passengers can also opt for the “confirm ticket only if lower berth available” option when booking online, thereby avoiding unwanted upper or middle berths if the quota is exhausted.
Special Provisions for Persons with Disabilities
Beyond the general priority quota, special reservation provisions for Persons with Disabilities (PwD) and their attendants are earmarked in all Mail/Express trains, including premium services like Rajdhani and Shatabdi.
This dedicated quota, which is available irrespective of whether the passenger avails concession benefits, is distributed as follows:
- Sleeper and 3AC/3E Class: Four berths (including two lower and two middle berths).
- Reserved Second Sitting (2S) and AC Chair Car (CC): Four seats.
Minister Vaishnaw also clarified that in the event a lower berth falls vacant during the journey, Ticket Checking Staff (TCS) are authorised to reassign it on priority to an eligible passenger who was initially allotted a middle or upper berth due to non-availability at the time of booking.
This flexibility is meant to address shortages, especially on long routes, and is typically exercised during the designated sleeping hours.
Accessibility Features in Modern Trains
Mr. Vaishnaw underscored the ongoing efforts to integrate enhanced accessibility and safety features into modern coaches. Amrit Bharat and Vande Bharat trains are specifically designed with the needs of Divyangjan (persons with disabilities) in mind.
These accessibility features include:
- Wider entrance doors and compartments.
- Larger lavatories with wider doors, grab rails for support, and wash basins/mirrors at suitable heights.
- Wheelchair parking areas.
- Integrated Braille signage (Braille scripts superimposed on standard signs) to assist visually impaired travellers.
Notably, the first and last coaches of Vande Bharat trains are equipped with special provisions for wheelchairs and Divyangjan-friendly toilets with wider space. Furthermore, modern trains often include modular ramps to facilitate easier boarding and de-boarding for persons with restricted mobility.
These enhancements are part of a broader commitment by Indian Railways to humanise long-distance travel and ensure a safe and comfortable experience for millions of vulnerable travellers annually.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Policies that prioritise the comfort and dignity of elderly and specially-abled citizens are fundamental to building an inclusive society. The proactive allotment of lower berths and the integration of accessibility features in new trains like Vande Bharat demonstrate a crucial move towards empathy and dignified access.
True social harmony rolls on these rails, guided by a commitment to ensuring that every individual, regardless of age or physical condition, can travel safely and comfortably. Such efforts inspire a kinder approach to service delivery and set a positive benchmark for public infrastructure nationwide.
