(a) the steps taken to augment the rail specific infrastructure/facilities needed by an
un-accompanied average train passenger; and
(b) the details of the steps taken to address the concerns and needs of senior citizens,
single women travellers and certain other categories of passengers who generally bank upon
relatives or friends at both boarding and disembarking points?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI R. VELU)
(a): Various passenger amenities/facilities have been provided at railway stations for the
convenience of the passengers. These are augmented on regular basis. During the year 2006-07,
Railways spent Rs.407.9 crores on various passenger amenities works. During the current year
budgetary provisions of Rs.493 crores under Passenger Amenities Head has been made.
(b): Certain special amenities/facilities have been accorded by the Railways for senior
citizens/single women/physically challenged persons which are as under:
i) Concession for senior citizens/physically challenged persons.
ii) Attaching of special designed SLRD coaches exclusively for handicapped passengers.
iii) Earmarking of a combined quota of 2 lower berths per coach in sleeper class, AC 3-Tier
and AC 2-Tier classes for senior citizens, female passengers above 45 years of age and above
and pregnant women, when travelling alone.
iv) Earmarking of a quota of 6 berths in sleeper class exclusively for ladies, irrespective
of age, when travelling alone or in a group.
v) Earmarking of unreserved accommodation for ladies in various trains (both suburban
and non-suburban).
vi) Wheel chairs.
vii) Separate booking counter.