Indian Railways Clarifies Lower Berth Allotment for Seniors

A recent social media post questioning the allocation of an upper berth to an 82-year-old woman has brought Indian Railways' seat allotment policies under scrutiny. The post claimed that despite available seats, the elderly passenger was assigned an upper berth.

In response, Indian Railways, through its catering and tourism corporation, explained that the computerized reservation system has a provision for automatically allotting lower berths to senior citizens and women over 45 years of age. However, this is contingent upon the availability of such berths at the time of booking. Passengers booking tickets online can opt to book only if a lower berth is available.

The railway authorities also highlighted that the general rule for availing the senior citizen quota benefit is to book tickets for a maximum of two passengers. If more than two individuals are included on the same ticket, the quota benefits may not apply. Specific coaches reserve a number of lower berths for senior citizens, women above 45, and pregnant women.

Passengers do not require age proof at the time of booking but must carry valid identification to present to ticket-checking staff if requested during their journey. This clarification aims to address confusion surrounding seat allocation for vulnerable passenger groups.