Unlocking the Rails: Does Indian Railways Uphold the Right to Equality?
Introduction
The Indian Railways, often referred to
as the lifeline of the nation, caters to more than 24 million of passengers per
day. yet, a noticeable divide exists between the facilities and amenities
offered in general, sleeper and AC coaches. the quality of service and comfort
levels are worlds apart.
Have you ever heard anyone appreciating the hospitality & sanitation of any general coach railway in India? The answer is a straight forward ‘NO’
Have you ever heard anyone appreciating the hospitality & sanitation of any general coach railway in India? The answer is a straight forward ‘NO’
This raises a pertinent question - does
this disparity align with the principles of equality and fair access to public
property?
The Right to equality, a fundamental right guaranteed
by the Constitution of India. It prohibits discrimination on various grounds,
including social and economic status. Even Right to clean and hygienic conditions on trains and
at railway stations, Right to assistance for senior citizens, pregnant women,
and passengers with disabilities mention in rights of passengers
in Indian Railways.
While it is understandable that AC coaches offer
premium services and higher comfort levels but the gap between Sleeper and AC
coaches seems to go beyond justifiable differences. Passengers in Sleeper
coaches often face challenges such as
- Overcrowded,
- Smelly compartment
- Wall smeared with spit
- Toilets clogged & overflowing,
- Wash basin looks like a crime scene,
- Floor of compartment being used as like
dustbin.
- Safety concerns incidents of theft, harassment, and accidents that passengers may face due to the lack of proper security measures and infrastructure.
- Challenges faced by passengers with disabilities in accessing and utilizing railway services. inadequate provisions for wheelchair accessibility, lack of accessible toilets, and the overall disregard for the needs of differently-abled passengers in general class.
which raise concerns about the
violation of their right to equality.
The reduction in general, sleeper and 2nd
class coaches to accommodate more premium services exacerbates the situation
for low-income passengers. These coaches have long been the lifeline for
millions of travelers who rely on affordable and basic facilities during their
journeys. As these options diminish in favor of high-priced alternatives, the
accessibility of train travel for marginalized communities is compromised. AC
coach ticket can be 3-4 times more expensive than general compartments ticket and
because of less number of affordable sleeper and general compartment low income
group travel in a hassle environment as shown in pictures below.
- In 2005, AC berths accounted for 23% and sleeper class berths, 77% but in last 18 years, these numbers have changed a lot.
- In 2023, sleeper berths have reduced to 46%.
JAN SADHARAN TRAINS
Following the pandemic, the Indian Railways
made the decision to discontinue the Jan Sadharan trains. Launched in 2002,
these trains operated without reservations, allowing passengers to board with
general compartment tickets. The aim was to offer a budget-friendly travel
option, particularly catering to low-income migrant workers unable to afford
reserved tickets. However, despite the affordability of these trains, the
decision was made to terminate their service. Consequently, the general
compartments on other trains have experienced a surge in overcrowding.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the disparity between general, sleeper
and AC coaches in Indian railways raises important questions about equality and
fair access to public services. as we strive towards a more inclusive and
equitable society, it is crucial for the Indian railways to bridge this gap and
ensure that all passengers, regardless of their ticket class, are treated with
dignity and provided with basic amenities. It is time for a revolution in the
way we perceive train travel, where every passenger's journey is marked by
comfort, safety, and equality. Let us join hands to transform the Indian railways
into a symbol of unity and inclusivity for all.
References
- https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/is-the-indian-railways-stretched-beyond-its-capacity/article66972873.ece
- https://swarajyamag.com/infrastructure/railways-2023-year-ender-launching-of-push-pull-coaches-more-vande-bharat-trains-freight-loading-records-and-balasore-tragedy-in-the-year-gone-by
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