Travelling solo as a woman in India can be daunting, but the Indian Railways has implemented special rules to ensure the safety and comfort of female passengers. Enacted in 1989, these laws are designed to protect solo women travellers, especially those accompanied by children. Here’s everything you need to know about these important regulations.
Understanding Section 139 of the Indian Railways Act 1989
One of the key provisions for solo female travellers is outlined in Section 139 of the Indian Railways Act 1989. This section states that if a woman is travelling alone with her child and is found without a rail pass or ticket, she cannot be ordered to disembark from the train at night. Instead, she can pay the fine and continue her journey. This rule ensures that women and their children are not left stranded and vulnerable, especially during nighttime travels.
Key Rules for Women Safety on Indian Railways
To further enhance the safety and convenience of female passengers, Indian Railways has implemented several additional rules. Here are some of the most important ones:
1. No Entry for Military Personnel in Ladies’ Compartments
Under Section 311 of the Indian Railways Act 1989, military personnel are prohibited from entering ladies’ compartments. This rule ensures that these compartments remain exclusively for women, providing a safe space for female travellers.
2. Removal of Women Passengers
A woman can only be asked to leave a train compartment if a lady constable is present with the authorities. This rule prevents any misuse of authority and ensures the presence of a female officer during such situations.
3. Boys Under 12 in Women’s Compartments
According to Section 162, boys under 12 years old are allowed to travel in women’s compartments. This rule accommodates women travelling with young male children.
4. Legal Action Against Unauthorized Men
Any male entering a women’s coach can face legal prosecution. This strict rule is in place to deter unauthorized entry and protect female passengers’ privacy and safety.
5. Reserved Berths for Women
Indian Railways reserves six berths in the sleeper class of long-distance Mail/Express trains for women. Additionally, six berths in third-tier AC (3AC) coaches of Garib Rath, Rajdhani, Duronto, and fully air-conditioned Express trains are reserved for female passengers. This reservation applies regardless of the women’s age or whether they are travelling alone or in a group.
6. Enhanced Security Measures
To bolster women’s safety, Indian Railways has installed CCTVs and monitoring rooms at various stations. These security measures help in maintaining vigilance and ensuring a safer travel environment.
7. ‘Meri Saheli’ Initiative
Launched on October 17, 2020, the ‘Meri Saheli’ initiative by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) aims to provide enhanced safety and security to lady passengers throughout their journey. This pan-India initiative focuses on offering security to female passengers, especially those travelling alone, from the time they board the train until they de-board.
Conclusion
While travelling solo can be a rewarding experience, safety is a primary concern for many women. Indian Railways’ special rules and initiatives, such as Section 139 of the Indian Railways Act 1989 and the ‘Meri Saheli’ program, are steps towards ensuring a safer and more secure travel experience for female passengers. By being aware of these rules, women can travel with greater confidence and peace of mind.
