Blind Federation urges Railways to reinstate disability quota, implement fare concession in premium trains
Ferozepur, May 9, 2025: The Progressive Federation of the Blinds- PFB - (Punjab Branch) has submitted a memorandum to Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Railways, Government of India, urging the restoration of seat reservation for persons with disabilities in AC Chair Car compartments and the initiation of a 75% travel concession for visually impaired passengers in Vande Bharat and similar trains.
In the memorandum, General Secretary Anil Gupta highlighted the Federation’s concern that the mandatory 4% reservation for persons with disabilities in AC Chair Car compartments is not being implemented in several trains. The Federation has requested immediate action to ensure the quota is restored across all such compartments.
The Federation also reiterated its longstanding demand for a 75% fare concession for visually impaired individuals in Vande Bharat and other premium trains—a request that has yet to be fulfilled. A copy of the earlier communication regarding this issue was also attached with the memorandum.
The Federation urged the Railway Ministry to act promptly on both matters to uphold the rights and welfare of the visually impaired community.