Learn how to access medical help while traveling by train in India. From calling emergency numbers like 138 to requesting assistance from train staff, this guide covers all essential steps for a safe journey.
Important Numbers You Need to Know for Getting Medical Help While Traveling by Train
Train travel is fast and comfy, but what if you get sick? Indian Railways has protocols in place to make sure that passengers get medical help right away if they get sick, hurt, or have a medical emergency. If you need medical aid while you’re on the train, here’s how to ask for it.
1. Call 138, the Medical Emergency Helpline.
When you travel by rail, one of the most significant numbers to remember is 138. This is the Indian Railways’ phone number for medical emergencies and general questions.
How It Works:
- Press 1 for immediate assistance with medical or security issues.
- Press 2 for basic questions, like the train schedule or the status of your PNR.
- Press 3 to file a complaint or grievance.
- Press 4 for cancellation and refunds.
Benefits:
- The helpline makes sure that aid is available right away in medical crises. Trained staff will send your request to the nearest station for assistance.
- They can also inform you about any medical facilities that are available on the train.
Tip: Save this number on your phone or somewhere else easy to access while traveling.
2. Go to the RailMadad app or website
The RailMadad app and website have made it easier for Indian Railways to receive help. Passengers can use this platform to file grievances, request assistance, and receive medical attention when necessary.
Features:
- Real-time assistance for medical emergencies.
- Track the status of your train and locate the nearest medical centers at the stations.
- Resulting in feedback and complaints.
How to Use:
- Visit the RailMadad website
- Alternatively, you can initiate the process by downloading the app.
- You can directly report your condition for urgent medical help, and medical teams will receive an alert.
3. Contact Train Staff (TTE or Guard)
Train staff, including the Ticket-Checking Examiner (TTE) and train guards, are crucial in ensuring your safety during the journey. If you feel unwell or experience any discomfort, please notify the TTE or guard promptly.
What They Can Do:
- Provide information regarding doctors and other medical amenities on board.
- Ask for medical help at the next station.
- Get to the train’s first-aid kit, which has basic supplies and occasionally an oxygen tank.
- If the train isn’t near a station or you’re in a rural area, the TTE can make plans for emergency medical stops.
4. Find Doctors on Board
There may be doctors on board if you’re on a long-distance train. Indian Railways maintains a roster of registered doctors who accompany passengers on their journey.
What to Do:
- Please ask the TTE or train guard for a list of doctors on board.
- If necessary, contact the doctor directly.
Benefits:
Doctors on board can give you medical care right now until you get to the next station or halt.
5. Use the Train’s Medical Box
Trains have basic first aid equipment on board to deal with emergencies like accidents, fainting, or other health problems. The packages have first-aid materials, medicines, and occasionally even an oxygen tank.
How to Get to It:
- Tell the TTE or guard to unlock the medicine box.
- Use the contents to feel better right away until a doctor can treat you.
6. Ask for an unscheduled stop in an emergency
If you have a major medical emergency, you can ask for an unplanned halt at the nearest station. The TTE can talk to the people in charge at the station to stop the train in an emergency.
How to Ask:
- Please communicate with the TTE or guard regarding your condition, and kindly request them to stop immediately if necessary.
Note: Only resort to this option if you truly require an unscheduled halt.
Keep these numbers in mind:
- 138: For questions about health and other things.
- 139: For questions about trains.
- 182: For problems connected to security.
- 1800-111-322: A helpline for railway security.
Write these numbers down or save them on your phone so you can get to them quickly in case of an emergency while you’re traveling.
Conclusion: Be Prepared and Stay Safe During Your Train Journey
Taking the train is a wonderful way to explore India, but you should be ready for any circumstance, including medical emergencies. You can make sure you get the aid you need fast by keeping the emergency numbers close by, understanding how to reach the train crew, and using the RailMadad app. Always let the TTE or guard know how you’re feeling, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Have a safe trip!
Disclaimer:
The information provided is based on available resources. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to official Indian Railways channels.
Also read: All-in-One ‘RailOne’ App Launches—Plus New Fare Revision from July 1