Indian Railways has Allowed PWDs to Travel in Unreserved Divyangjan Coaches of Mail & Express Trains

Indian Railways has announced that Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) are now allowed to travel in unreserved Divyangjan coaches, Mail and Express trains if they have a valid Unique Disability ID (UDID) card. The Ministry of Railways declared that passengers carrying this card, issued by the Department of Empowerment of Persons

with Disabilities, or those eligible for concessional fares, will be considered valid travellers in these special coaches.

Inclusion of Coaches

These coaches include the Second Class Luggage-cum-Brake Van with a Divyangjan compartment (SLRD) and the Luggage-cum-Second Class Luggage-cum-Brake Van with a Divyangjan compartment (LSLRD). However, passengers must have proper travel permission or valid tickets to use these facilities.

Strict Action to be Taken Against Violation of Rules

The Railways have also made it clear that strict action will be taken against anyone travelling in these coaches without proper authorisation. This will be done under the rules of the Railway Act, 1989, to ensure that these reserved spaces are available only for those who genuinely need them. All Zonal Railways across the country have been instructed to follow and implement these guidelines properly to improve travel convenience and ensure that PwDs get the facilities meant for them without any misuse.

How will these Cards Help?

Moreover, the Railways mentioned that the Divyangjan Card, also known as the E-Ticketing Photo Identity Card, helps PwDs avail travel concessions. This card is issued based on valid disability certificates, and UDID cards are accepted for certain categories. Passengers can apply for a new card or renew their existing one through official Railway or Central Government websites.