Relaxation in I-card rules during train journey

Under the relaxation, attested photocopy of ration card with photograph and the nationalised bank passbook with photograph would also be accepted as a proof of identity only in case of reserved tickets booked through computerized Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters for journey in Sleeper and Second Reserved Sitting classes.

The revised provision allowing the relaxation will be made effective from January 15, according to a release.

Railways have made it mandatory for carrying I-card by passengers travelling in reserved class including sleeper and AC classes.

A passenger is required to attest the photocopy of the ration card with photograph and the nationalised bank passbook with photograph by a gazetted officer or the chief reservation supervisor or station manager or station master.

The relaxation applies only to ration card and the nationalized bank pass book and not in case of other types of proofs of identity cards for which only original proof will be required during journey.

Railways, however, clarified that the changed provision is not applicable to all classes of e-tickets and Tatkal tickets and tickets issued through PRS counter for travelling in air-conditioned classes and First Class. Travelling with these categories of tickets shall continue to be governed by existing instructions.