SRINAGAR: The Ministry of Railways has reiterated that persons with disabilities (PwDs) possessing a valid Unique Disability ID (UDID) card are authorised to travel in unreserved Divyangjan coaches of Mail and Express trains, provided they hold valid travel permission.
The Ministry said PwDs issued UDID cards by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, as well as those eligible for fare concessions under railway norms, will be recognised as legitimate passengers in designated coaches. These include the Second Class Luggage-cum-Brake Van with Divyangjan compartment (SLRD) and the Luggage-cum-Second Class Luggage-cum-Brake Van with Divyangjan compartment (LSLRD).
Railways has instructed all Zonal Railways to enforce compliance strictly and cautioned that unauthorised travel in these reserved coaches will attract penalties under the Railway Act, 1989. The move is aimed at safeguarding dedicated facilities for genuine beneficiaries.
Officials stated that the Divyangjan Card, also known as the E-Ticketing Photo Identity Card, facilitates concessional travel for eligible PwDs and is issued on the basis of valid disability certification. UDID cards are accepted for specified categories.
The Ministry added that applications for new cards and renewals are available through official Railway and Central Government digital portals.
