Passengers travelling in local railways can now heave a sigh of relief as Indian Railways has come up with an initiative to offer train travel insurance at the cheapest premium possible.
The Indian Railways has announced that from now on, passengers traveling in local trains would be insured for a coverage of Rs. 10 lakh at a premium of 92 paise a passenger. Through competitive bidding among 17 companies, ICICI Lombard, Shriram General Insurance and Royal Sundaram General Insurance are the three insurance companies who have been selected to do the needful.
Initially, the scheme would be available for those who book tickets online. Later, it would be extended to season ticket holders. The premium and coverage would be same irrespective of the class, destination and distance, to which one travels.
The coverage would take care of terrorist attacks, riots, theft, accidental fall of passenger from train and normal rail mishaps. For death and permanent disability of traveler, Rs. 10 lakh would be compensated. For permanent partial disability, the coverage would be around Rs. 7.5 lakh and hospital expenses up to Rs. 2 lakh. Apart from all this, insurance scheme also offers Rs. 10,000 for transporting mortal remains.
While Shriram General Insurance quoted at 92 paise, Royal Sundaram quoted at Rs. 1.15 and ICICI Lombard at 99 paise. Although there is no data to suggest that it is the cheapest in the world, the premium is surely below global market standards.
With the government already launching many affordable schemes, this railway insurance scheme also aims to fall in line with the rest.
As updated on 15 September, 2016: With the recent developments in place, Railways are also planning to extend insurance coverage for passenger belongings such as baggage, mobiles, and laptops.
