A tragic fire broke out on the Tatanagar–Ernakulam Express, engulfing two AC coaches and sending passengers into panic. While many managed to escape, one passenger died in the blaze on Monday, and the luggage of several travellers was destroyed. Incidents like these highlight the importance of railway safety and the role of passenger insurance in mitigating financial loss.

What many travellers may not know is that IRCTC provides up to ₹10 lakh in compensation for accidents during train journeys and the insurance can be availed for just 35 paise when booking tickets online.

How IRCTC compensation works

Under Sections 124 and 124A of the Railways Act, 1989, the central government provides compensation for passengers injured or killed in train accidents. The insurance rules are straightforward:

Death or total disability: Up to ₹10 lakh

Partial disability: ₹7.5 lakh

Serious injury: ₹2.5 lakh

Passengers who opt for the small insurance premium of 35 paise while booking tickets online through IRCTC’s website or app are eligible for this coverage. Essentially, for less than a rupee, Indian Railways ensures a safety net of up to ₹10 lakh, which can be lifesaving in accidents.

Important points to note

  • The insurance applies only to online ticket bookings. Offline ticket purchases at railway counters do not include this coverage.
  • Compensation is available only to the passenger or their family holding a valid ticket.
  • No compensation is provided if the accident occurs due to the passenger’s own fault, illness, or intentional actions.
  • In some cases, state governments may announce additional compensation.