Hi all, Over the past 3 to 4 years, I’ve become pretty good at traveling solo — flights, buses, trains, you name it. Between airports, bus stations, and railway platforms, I’ve had my fair share of interesting stories. Flights and buses are relatively easier — airports have ground staff to assist, and with buses, you can just hop in an Uber and reach the stop. But when it comes to **trains**, it’s a different ball game altogether.
>From chatting with other visually impaired folks, I've realized train travel tends to be the most challenging. So I thought, why not share a few things I’ve picked up along the way? If you’re planning your first solo train trip, this one’s for you. Ticketing Woes (and Work-arounds) Booking on IRCTC isn’t exactly a joyride — especially if you use a screen reader. But once you somehow manage to get your ticket booked, you’re halfway there. Just make sure to screenshot or save the PNR, coach, and seat details somewhere easily accessible. What to Pack (Besides the Obvious) You’ll obviously pack your clothes, charger, toothbrush and all that, but here are a few extra things I never travel without: - Wet wipes and sanitizer – Because hygiene in Indian trains is a gamble. - Pepper spray and a whistle – I carry them just in case. Haven’t had to use them, thankfully. - Sling bag – Super handy. You don’t have to hold it in your hand, just wear it across and forget about it. - Haversack or trolley – I prefer a haversack; hands-free and easier to manage. But if you must take a trolley, just make sure it’s not one of those with squeaky wheels and a rebellious attitude. - Power bank – Cannot stress this enough. Between using the Where’s My Train app, screen readers, and calling for help if needed, your phone’s battery will feel like it’s running a marathon. A good power bank = peace of mind. Assistive Tech I Swear By White cane– Absolute must if you’re fully blind. It gives you a sense of direction and makes people around you more aware too. - Where’s My Train app – Surprisingly accessible and super useful. It tells you where your train is, how late it’s running, and how far the next station is. I keep checking it to stay on track (pun intended). - AI description apps – If you’re trying to figure out your surroundings, use apps like Seeing AI or Be My Eyes. Getting on the Train: My 3 Methods 1. Family/friend drop-off – Easiest and safest. They walk you right to your coach and make sure you’re settled. 2. Buggy service – Every station usually has one. Call them a day in advance and they’ll pick you up from the entrance and drop you at your coach. But fair warning — this service is like a moody cat. Sometimes it shows up, sometimes it ghosts you. 3. Porter service – Works well too. They’ll guide you to the coach and help with luggage. If you like a particular porter, save their number for future journeys. I usually avoid this if I’m arriving late at night though. On the Train: Some Math and Mapping Let’s say your seat is No. 40 in 3AC. Each 3AC coach has 8 berths per compartment. That means your seat is probably in the 5th compartment (side upper). In 2AC, it’ll be in the 6th. It helps to mentally map the layout. Moving around? Count the compartments as you walk to the washroom or basin. If you’re in the 5th, you’ll need to cross 4 to get to the pantry or door area. Also, pro tips: - Trash bins are usually under the wash basin. - Indian toilets are often to the left, western ones to the right. - Try to finish dinner and use the washroom before everyone’s asleep — nobody likes being the midnight ninja trying to climb down from a side upper. Reaching Your Destination Keep an eye (well, ear) on the Where’s My Train app. When it shows your destination is about 2 km away, that’s your cue. Grab your bag, double check you’ve got everything (don’t forget your phone!), and wait. When the train stops, the platform side is usually where the sound is louder and people are getting down. You’ll pick it up with a little experience. To exit, same options again — family or friend, buggy service (if available), or porter. Final Thoughts The first two train journeys can feel overwhelming. I’ve been there. But once you figure out the rhythm, it gets easier. You start building confidence, planning better, and actually enjoying the journey. And hey — if you’ve had your own train travel experiences as a visually impaired person, or have tips that helped you, please do share. The more we talk about it, the more we learn from each other. Wishing you happy and safe journeys. May your phone never die and your seat always be away from the toilet. With regards, Aishwarya -- Disclaimer: 1. Contents of the mails, factual, or otherwise, reflect the thinking of the person sending the mail and AI in no way relates itself to its veracity; 2. AI cannot be held liable for any commission/omission based on the mails sent through this mailing list.. Search for old postings at: http://www.mail-archive.com/[email protected]/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "AccessIndia" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to [email protected]. To view this discussion visit https://groups.google.com/a/accessindia.org.in/d/msgid/accessindia/CAN1woN7iBcatXPxZBPzJPeTFcXtD6ugkvdp0ERCme61Z9w51vg%40mail.gmail.com.
