When it comes to commuting by trains, the Indian Railways provides a flat 40 per cent rebate to male senior citizens and a flat 50 per cent rebate to female senior citizens on fares in all classes of all trains. This includes Sleeper Class, First Class, Air Conditioned (AC) Chair and First Class AC in all trains including Shatabdi and Rajdhani Expresses. The minimum age defined for male senior citizens for availing this particular rebate is 60 years, while for female senior citizens it is 58 years.
The government has also created special booking counters for senior citizens to prevent extreme discomfort and health problems caused by standing in long queues. The line here is quite short and allows them to book a ticket in relative comfort. Senior citizens also have the option of booking tickets through the online reservation system of Indian Railways. After a few days, the tickets are home delivered.
Apart from this, special coaches have been introduced for senior citizens who use a wheel chair. These coaches have provisions such as space for wheel chairs, handrails and a specially designed toilet. Special ramps for wheel-chaired seniors have been constructed at numerous railway stations, so that they don't have to face the discomfort of crossing the rail tracks or climbing up stairs. Wheel Chairs for the use of older persons are available at all junctions, District Headquarters and other important stations.
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