IRCTC to provide Bedroll, Blankets in AC coaches as Indian Railways resume bedding services in trains

Indian Railways earlier discontinued the services of providing linen and blanket as a precautionary measure against the Covid-19 pandemic.

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Indian Railways has restarted the services of providing bedrolls and blankets in the passenger trains starting today (March 10). The Railways stopped providing the services inside trains due to COVID-19. However, Railways will now resume the services of providing blankets in the AC coaches of trains. The linen will include pillows, blankets, sheets and towels in a sealed cover.

Indian Railways earlier discontinued the service of providing linen and blanket as a precautionary measure against the Covid-19 pandemic. While free bedroll was discontinued, Railways was offering disposable bedroll kit as per need basis for those willing to buy while travelling in the AC coaches of the passenger trains.

In an attempt to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Railways had announced in May 2020 that it would not provide blankets and curtains in air-conditioned coaches of all trains. Passengers were advised to bring their own blankets on long journeys. It had instructed that the minimum temperature in train coaches be set at 24-25 degrees Celsius.

Apart from this, Railways have now simplified the process related to group ticket booking, making it very easy to book the entire train or an entire coach. Passengers can make the booking from their nearest railway station only. According to reports, to book a train on the occasion of marriage, you have to go to the IRCTC website. It is to be noted that, 30 per cent extra money is to be paid on every ticket.

The one booking the train will have to deposit a fixed amount, which will be returned on completion of your journey. Service tax, GST and other taxes will not be included in this amount. 

With inputs from PTI