Bigger windows with better-quality glass in order to allow rail travellers a better view of the outside, special coaches exclusively for foreigners and a better communication system to reach the train driver in case of emergency so that the “ancient” alarm chain system can be done away with: these are some of the fresh recommendations issued by the Passenger Amenities Committee (PAC) to the Railway Ministry.

“The pleasure of a train journey lies in being able to see the beautiful outdoors and the countryside. The 30x30cm windows with hazy glass rob the passengers of that experience. We have recommended that the Railways should consider bigger-sized windows with clearer glass,” PAC chairman Shuvaprassana said on Monday, following the third meeting between the committee and ministry.

Another key recommendation that the PAC has made is the introduction of specially designed luxury coaches exclusively meant for foreign travellers. The idea is to get special luxury coaches manufactured and attach them with normal mail/express trains.

With cases of alarm chain pulling having been identified as a major cause of train delays, the PAC also wants the concept to be re-examined. “Why do we still require an ancient system like this to stop a train? Why can’t there be a communication system that can be used to ask the engine driver to stop the train in an emergency?” Shuvaprassana said.

The PAC has also recommended that the website of the Indian Railways should be designed in the form of a single window for all kinds of information. “The interface, too, needs to be improved upon to provide vital information such as amenities available, phone numbers, STD codes, location map, geographical coordinates, nearest tourist spots and historical significance (if any) of the place hyperlinked to stations,” the PAC stated.

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