New Delhi: Indian Railways, which operates the railway system in our country, is one of the largest national rail networks in the work. It functions under the Ministry of Railways and is also one of the largest employer in the world, with millions of people working for it. In 1837, the first steam operated railway ran in Madras and the first passenger train operated in 1853 between Mumbai and Thane. Like other transports, the railways also has some rules and regulations and gives certain rights to passengers.
There are several provisions of the Indian Railways to protect the interests of passengers and most of us are unaware of them. In this article, we will take a look at some of the important rights of the passengers Indian Railways.
Rights of passengers in Indian Railways
The two-stop rule
If someone misses the train from the designated boarding station, the ticket collector has to wait for at least an hour or until the train passes the next two stops before allocating the booked seat to anyone else. It enables the person to catch the train in either of the next two stops.
The compensation for delays
If a train is late by more than 3 hours and it become inconvenient for the passenger to travel, he or she is will get a full refund of the ticket fare. Those traveling by premium trains can also claim compensation subject to certain conditions.
The right to full refund
If a passenger cancels the ticket with the prescribed time limit, then he or she can can claim a 100 per cent refund on the ticket fare. If a train is cancelled or rescheduled by a duration of over 3 hours, then the passenger will get a full refund and no cancellation charge will be imposed. If a train cannot complete its journey mid-route and the railways cannot provide an alternative arrangement, the passenger is eligible for a full refund on the ticket fare.
Hygiene and cleanliness
Passengers can request cleaning services under the ‘Clean My Coach’ initiative. They have to send an SMS to 139 with their PNR number or use the Railways’ official mobile app.
Food and water
Those who are traveling on trains with catering facilities are entitled to clean drinking water and hygienic food. If the catering facility of the train serves food of poor quality, then the passengers can file a complaint via the ‘Rail Madad App’, or 139 helpline.
Medical help
It is the right of every passenger to get medical help onboard. They request for it by contacting the staff in the train, station authorities, or by dialing 139.
Security and safety
Passengers who are facing security concerns can ask the Railway Protection Force (RPF) for help. Women travelling alone or are facing any problem can dial the RPF helpline (182) to seek help.
Lodging complaints
When it comes to harassment, theft, or poor service, the passengers can file complaints via the Rail Madad App, 139 helpline, or they can lodge an FIR at the next station.
Do not disturb
After 10 pm, the TTE cannot disturb the passengers or ask for their ticket as the ticket verification process has to be completed by then. Likewise, the railway service staff also cannot cause any disturbance after 10 pm.
Indian Railways passengers have numerous rights often overlooked. This article details key passenger rights, including the two-stop rule for missed trains, compensation for significant delays, and full refunds for cancellations or disruptions. Biz News Business News – Personal Finance News, Share Market News, BSE/NSE News, Stock Exchange News Today
