Bedroll charges included in the fare of Garib Rath Express

As per instructions issued under letter no.2006/TG-III/645/4 dated 23.10.2006, bedroll charges for Garib Rath Express trains are @ ` 25/- per bedroll. At present, these bedrolls are supplied to the passengers on demand and charges, collected separately from the passengers. Of late, frequent complaints are received from various sources regarding supply of used bedroll or half set of bedroll to the passengers, excess charging of passengers, non- issuance of receipt, etc. Apart from causing discontent amongst passengers, this also leads to loss of revenue to the Railways.

The matter has been accordingly reviewed. It has been decided that the methodology followed regarding supply of bedrolls in Sleeper Class of Duronto Express trains should also be adopted for Garib Rath Express trains. The passengers will now be required to give the option for the bedrolls while booking ticket by Garib Rath express trains and pay requisite charges @ ` 25/- per bedrolls at the Booking Counter itself. Similar provision will be made for passengers booking tickets through internet.

Bedrolls services on the Zonal Railways are being managed by Mechanical Department through CDO/CW control. Therefore, it is desired that advance intimation regarding number of passengers opting for bedroll should be given to CDO/CW concerned to ensure supply of adequate number of bedrolls booked by passengers. A few extra bedroll kits will also be required to be carried in the train to cater to exigencies of demand by passengers who have not booked in advance or have booked ticket at the current reservation counters or in any other case of non-communication of demand to the coaching depot.

CRIS will make necessary modifications in the software and intimate the date of effect to all zonal Railways.

The above provisions for supply of bedrolls in Garib Rath Express trains shall be implemented on trial basis for a period of six months to assess the demand for bedrolls by these trains under the scheme.