Railways' big gift: Book porter & wheelchair online with PNR, no more waiting at station

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Indian Railways is launching a new digital initiative to make rail travel easier for passengers. Under this initiative, passengers will no longer have to wait for porters to carry their luggage or wheelchairs for the elderly and disabled upon arriving at the railway station. Passengers will be able to book porters and wheelchairs online in advance, from the comfort of their homes.

This facility is being launched in the Ajmer Railway Division from November 16, 2026. This facility will be implemented using a mobile app and the railway's official website. If the initial pilot is successful, it may be implemented at other major railway stations across the country.

Wheelchair will be booked using PNR number

To avail of the e-wheelchair facility offered by the Railways, passengers will need their 10-digit PNR number. Passengers can complete the process online by visiting the railway website, irctctourism.com.

To book, go to the 'More' or 'Services' option on the website and select 'E-Wheelchair' under the 'At Stations' section. Then, enter your PNR number and search. The screen will display train and travel information.

Passengers can book wheelchairs at their boarding station or destination station, depending on their needs. After entering all the necessary information, click on the "Book" option. The voucher or confirmation message received upon completion of the booking can be saved on your mobile phone or email.

Porters can be booked in advance through the mobile app

Under the new railway system, passengers will also be able to book porters in advance using their smartphones via an authorized mobile app. This facility will also be linked to the PNR number of the train ticket.

This will allow porters to receive passenger arrival and departure times and other important travel information in advance. Passengers will be spared the hassle of wandering around or haggling with porters to pick up their luggage upon arrival at the station.

Elderly and disabled passengers will benefit the most

This initiative is expected to provide the most relief to elderly, sick, and disabled passengers, who will no longer have to wait for wheelchairs or assistance to be available at the station.

This system can also prove useful for passengers traveling with families and carrying large luggage. Online advance booking will help provide timely assistance to passengers and make the travel experience more seamless at railway stations.