Rail travel has the ability to uplift a spoiled mood and even heal a broken heart. A few silent moments at the window seat has the power to rejuvenate our souls. However, maintaining the position of Asia's ..... largest rail network and catering to the needs of 1.3 billion population is a huge responsibility. Apart from the basic travel requirements it also has to provide its customers with certain amenities to make the entire journey memorable and comfortable.
Over years the passengers have changed and so have their expectations. More and more Indians are experiencing international rail travel. Its a basic human instinct to compare "OURS" with"THEIRS".
Indian Railways have also pledged customer satisfaction and is undergoing a slow but steady makeover. Here are 10 major amenities introduced by the mass carrier during the recent years.
1. High level platforms - Previously high level platforms were only available at major stations. During 2018, Railway Board introduced the concept of high level platforms as a minimum essential amenity at all stations irrespective of categories. Since then, many have been upgraded and rest are underway.
2. FOBs - Introduction of FOBs at all stations as minimum essential amenity is another crucial measure towards enhancing the safety standard of the stations.
3. Escalators & Lifts - All major stations are being facilitated with escalators or lifts or both for ease of movement of sick and elderly.
4. Disability inspector - A dedicated disability inspector have been nominated by every division. His contact details are shared at every important station. Any Divyangjan traveling by railway may contact him in case of any difficulty. He has been assigned the duty to collaborate with the station staff and make necessary arrangements as requested by the customer.
5. Divyang friendly ambience - During 2018, another major reform was planned to provide ease of movement for divyanjan inside station premises.
6. ATVM - Automatic Ticket Vending Machine has been installed at all major station to reduce congestion at ticket counters.
7. Water Vending Machines - Indian Railway serves passengers of different financial standards. It sometimes become burdensome for passengers to buy costly water bottles of pantry car services. Water Vending Machines have been commissioned at major stations to ensure availability of drinking water at low cost.
8. AVM - Automatic Vending Machine without any manual interference is another milestone in the field of amenity.
9. Executive lounge - The idea of setting up of Executive lounges at various stations was first introduced in 2015. At major junction stations passengers may wait for their trains at these lounge facilities.
10. Baby feeding corners - Even though airports were the pioneers to make proper arrangements for our little munchkins, Indian Railway too has not shied away from their responsibility. Baby feeding corners have been provided at stations to ensure the comfort and privacy of the mothers and babies.
We would request more ideas regarding scope of improvement from our readers. We would definitely try to convey your suggestion to the Railway administration.
Kindly share your ideas in the comment section.
Other related blogs