Ensuring inclusive travel and greater accessibility, Indian Railways has clarified that Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) holding a valid Unique Disability ID (UDID) card will be permitted to travel in unreserved coaches earmarked for Divyangjan in Mail/Express trains.

PwDs holding valid UDID cards issued by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), as well as those granted concessional fare facility by Indian Railways, shall be treated as bona fide passengers for travelling in Second Class Luggage-cum-Brake Van with Compartment for Divyangjan (SLRD) or Luggage-cum-Second Class Luggage-cum-Brake Van with Compartment for Divyangjan (LSLRD) coaches earmarked for PwDs, subject to holding valid travel authority.

Railways has further stated that action against unauthorised passengers found travelling in these designated coaches shall be taken in accordance with the provisions of the Railway Act, 1989. This has been done to ensure that the intended beneficiaries are able to access and utilise the facilities without inconvenience.

All Zonal Railways have been advised to issue necessary instructions to concerned officials to ensure proper implementation of these provisions.

It may also be noted that the Divyangjan Card, also known as the E-Ticketing Photo Identity Card (EPICS), is a railway identity card for Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan) that allows them to avail concessions on train travel. The card is issued on the basis of a valid disability/concession certificate, with the UDID card being accepted for some categories. Applications for issuance or renewal may be submitted through the Indian Railways Divyangjan portal or the Central Government services portal. 

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Dharmendra Tewari/ Dr. Nayan Solanki/ Ritu Raj/ Manik Sharma