Introduction to Navigating Indore Railway Station for a Paralyzed Mother

When your paralyzed mother needs to board a train at Indore Railway Station, careful planning and coordination are essential. This article provides a comprehensive guide for caregivers, ensuring a smooth and accessible journey for your loved one. Whether your mother needs a wheelchair or another form of assistance, you can find the necessary support and guidance at the station. Here’s how to proceed:

Preliminary Steps

The first crucial step is to determine on which platform the train will arrive. Common platforms at the station include Platform 1, where wheelchair access is readily available. If your mother requires a wheelchair, you need to inform the authorities at the Indore Railway Station in advance.

Wheelchair Accessibility

Wheelchair Facilities

Senior citizens and Divyangjans (people with disabilities) can avail wheelchair facilities for free at most railway stations. Around 7000 wheelchairs are available at over 5400 railway stations, with about one wheelchair per platform in leading stations. These facilities help in escorting people to and from trains comfortably.

The Indore Railway Station is well-equipped with provisions for wheelchairs. Special attendants and porters can be hired or pre-fixed at nominal costs to assist the disabled while commuting. Passengers can also book wheelchair-cum-porter services through NGOs, charitable trusts, and public sector undertakings (PSUs) under the Yatri Mitra Sewa scheme. Over 2586 stations have wheelchair-friendly ramps, and many major stations provide Battery Operated Vehicles (BOVs) either free or on a chargeable basis through the Railways CSR initiative.

Alternative Methods

If your mother is unable to move on a wheelchair and the train is on Platform 1, you can contact the authorities in advance. They can make arrangements to directly take your vehicle from the Railway Mail Service office or Parcel office to Platform 1. The Parcel office has a gate that provides direct access to Platform 1 for vehicles.

If the train is not on Platform 1, check for lift facilities on the other platforms. Many stations have lift access, making it easier for those using wheelchairs. As of August 2022, over 1090 escalators operate at 339 stations, and 981 lifts are functional across 400 stations. Over 1465 stations have non-slippery walkways from parking lots to station buildings, and 3897 stations have drinking water or lavatory facilities for specially-abled travelers.

Even if lift facilities are unavailable, you can use the path made for parcel office trolleys to reach the platform. However, this method might take some time, so you need to plan accordingly.

Train Facilities for Disabled Passengers

Almost all mail and express trains come equipped with Standard Lower and Rake (SLRD) coaches, which are modified to accommodate disabled passengers. These coaches have toilets and four berths, with the lower berths reserved for the differently-abled and the upper berths for attendants. Train Ticket Examiners (TTEs) can allot any vacant lower berths to senior citizens and disabled passengers with valid proof of age and prescribed certifications.

While booking tickets through the computerized Passenger Reservation System (PRS), lower berths are automatically allotted to senior citizens and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) if available, even if no choice is given. The community enjoys four to five lower berths per coach in 3AC and 3-4 lower berths per coach in 2AC classes, depending on the number of coaches.

Moreover, all zonal railways have earmarked a minimum of seven seats for senior citizens in the first and last second-class compartments in local trains.

Seeking Immediate Assistance

If you encounter any issues or need immediate assistance, you can contact the Rail Ministry or the Rail Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw's Twitter handle. Your concerns are likely to receive a positive response and swift resolution.

Conclusion

Your paralyzed mother's journey from boarding the train to traveling comfortably is manageable with proper preparation and support. Use the resources and facilities provided by the Indore Railway Station, and reach out for further assistance if needed. A well-coordinated approach ensures a smooth and stress-free experience for both you and your mother.