New Delhi. There is news of great relief for the passengers traveling by Indian Railways. Now passengers purchasing tickets from the reservation counter of the railway station can also get the facility of travel accident insurance at a lower premium. Under this scheme, it has been said that insurance cover up to Rs 10 lakh will be provided for just 45 paise. This will benefit those passengers who prefer to book tickets directly from the counter instead of booking tickets online.
The difference between online and offline tickets will end
Till now, the Railways' optional travel insurance facility has been available mainly to passengers booking tickets through IRCTC's website and mobile app. Passengers who bought tickets from the counter were not able to avail this facility. The proposed change may pave the way for providing insurance protection to both types of passengers.
Supreme Court set the deadline
According to the information given, the Supreme Court has given the Railway Board a deadline of 27 October 2026 to implement this system across the country. This matter came up during the hearing of issues related to railway safety and passengers' rights after the Balasore train accident. The court has stressed on eliminating the gap in insurance facilities between passengers based on the method of purchasing tickets.
Insurance cover up to Rs 10 lakh in case of accident
Under the existing online travel insurance scheme, a maximum insurance cover of up to Rs 10 lakh can be provided in case of death or permanent total disability of the passenger due to accident. In cases like permanent partial disability and hospital treatment, different amounts are prescribed as per the conditions. However, the sum insured depends on the terms and conditions of the respective policy and the eligibility of the claim.
What will counter ticket holders have to do?
Detailed guidelines are awaited on how the insurance premium will be charged for passengers purchasing tickets over the counter, how nominee information will be entered and what will be the claim process. Passengers are advised to check the official announcements from Railways and IRCTC to confirm the final rules.