Indian railways are one of the largest networks in the world, carrying more than 8 billion passengers per year and can cover long distances at a relatively cheap fare. The train therefore can be used by female travelers who are traveling alone on their own adventure to explore the country. But, the issue of safety is always a concern if one has to be traveling alone. Prospective passengers can ensure that they have a smooth and accident-free experience on the train by observing certain practices and understanding some of the Railway policies.
Select Safe Railway Trains in Indian Territory
Selecting only the safest types of trains will allow solo travelers to feel more secure when on the move. The facility does not have any open area in the coaches and the 1AC and 2AC coaches are fully air-conditioned to provide the best safety. You also have the privilege of paying for 2 bunks so that nobody else can squeeze themselves into your coupe. To observe this future, the railways have provided separate compartments for females in each train and for the sleeper class as well. Look at this when arranging the ticket.
Measures to Take in Case of Risks for Single Female Travelers in India Trains
While Indian trains are generally very safe, especially the higher classes, using sound judgment can help avoid any unpleasant incidents during your journey:While Indian trains are generally very safe, especially the higher classes, using sound judgment can help avoid any unpleasant incidents during your journey:
• If possible, it is advised to select only the female-only carriages to prevent unwanted attention and make adjustments to the clothing.
• Be sure to cover your legs and do not go out at night when the train is parking.
• Additionally you should cook your own food and avoid taking food from people you don’t know well.
• Do not disclose to other passengers of a vehicle the intended destination or any other details about oneself.
• Stay cautious and keep your belongings on you to avoid any incidents of theft.
• Find the alarm chain that is fixed in each coach to seek for assistance when required.
Why are Indian Trains Considered Safe or Unsafe for single women?
Safety perceptions may be an issue that may make women consider twice when they have to travel alone on Indian trains. But as you can see around the world, though such things are rare, there are sometimes such misfortunes that happen. Now, the issue is to maintain vigilance and not look paranoid or overly anxious all the time. The more secure 1AC and 2AC classes are popular and do provide fairly safe accommodation with shared cabins and extra security. Sleeper class has provision for locked storage with similar security arrangements made for ladies only area. Even during the day, Indian trains are relatively safe for women with not much incidence that might be witnessed by a woman passing through the train.
Traveling in 1AC Class
Having the 1AC class for herself alone makes a single lady traveler feel more secure when booking the rail. 1AC has the added feature of having private compartments for passengers, with carpeting, berths, and secured doors hence a safe and comfortable environment. This also reduces the opportunity for passengers to roam the train, as they are also offered free meals inside the train. They charge high tariffs, implying that only the upper-class Indians and the foreigners use the services. 1AC class is one of the safest train options for solo females, although book your tickets in advance because this train is filled up as quickly as its seats are available.
Tips for Traveling Overnight
Inter-city trains are commonly associated with lengthy trips that can be completed at night. To maximize safety for solo females:To maximize safety for solo females:
• Avoid taking lower berths during travel, thereby having limited access to them.
• Never open a compartment door from inside while sleeping.
• Do not heave out to walk during the night when the lights of the coach go off
• The Meal delivery can also be ordered through the UseFoodRails/TravelKhana apps straight to your berth.
• Sleep sound knowing that coach attendants add a measure of security on the road.
Conclusion
The fact that India has the second largest rail network also means that travelling through this culturally rich country is convenient when done independently and as a woman too. As with any place, it is always wise to be careful but women can enjoy exploring the richness of India by rail with a bit of preparation and careful subsequent steps. Banning night strolling, selecting safe carriages and using female-only compartments provide an opportunity to have a care-free ride across this vast and hospitable country taking a train.
