Insurance coverage for train travel: Claim rules & process during accident
The tragic triple-train accident in Odisha’s Balasore on June 2, resulting in the loss of 288 lives, serves as a stark reminder to exercise caution.
When making travel plans. If passengers wish to opt for train travel insurance, Indian Railways provides them with the opportunity to choose the ‘Optional Travel Insurance Scheme’ while booking tickets on the official website of the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC).
The premium for this insurance is “ ₹0.35 per passenger (effective from November 1, 2021),” inclusive of all taxes. In the event of an eligible claim, the benefits under this policy will be paid within 15 days upon receipt of the required documents.
In which cases can this insurance be claimed?
In the event of accidents such as train collisions, train derailments, or any other mishaps, passengers or their nominees can claim compensation. The policy coverage will be based on the Passenger Name Record (PNR) and will include coverage for death, permanent total disability, permanent partial disability, hospitalisation expenses and transportation of mortal remains.
Insurance coverage for different cases depends on:
Scenario Insurance cover
Death Rs. 10,00,000
Permanent total disablity upto Rs. 10,00,000
Permanent partial disability upto Rs. 7,50,000
Hospitalisation expenses for injuries upto Rs. 2,00,000
Transportation of mortal remains Rs. 10,000
Terms and conditions for claiming insurance
The scheme is applicable only to Indian citizens who book their e-tickets through the official IRCTC website. Foreign citizens are not eligible for this scheme.
The scheme is optional, but if chosen, it becomes compulsory for all passengers booked under one PNR number.
Optional Travel Insurance can only be availed for Confirmed (CNF), Reserved Against Cancellation (RAC), or Partially Confirmed (Part CNF) tickets at the time of booking.
Children below 5 years of age who book tickets without a berth/seat are not eligible for the optional travel insurance.
In case a passenger opts for insurance, any claims or liabilities will be between the insured individual and the insurance company.