The government has introduced a 25% discount on train fares for passengers aged 65 and above and for persons with disabilities, aiming to make Bangladesh Railway services more accessible and inclusive, according to a circular issued by the Ministry of Railways.
Under the new rules, senior citizens will receive a 25% discount on the base fare of tickets, subject to conditions. Eligibility will be automatically verified through National Identity Card (NID) data.
Persons with disabilities holding the ‘Suborna’ identity card under the Ministry of Social Welfare will continue to receive a 50% discount on ‘Shovon’ and ‘Shovon Chair’ classes of intercity trains. They will also get a new 25% discount on air-conditioned (AC) classes. Service charges, VAT and other fees will remain applicable under existing rules.
The discount facility for senior citizens will be available both online and at station counters. Passengers must be registered in the Bangladesh Railway ticketing system and complete NID verification to avail the benefit.
A senior passenger may use the 25% discount a maximum of two times per week. If a discounted ticket is refunded, it will not be counted in the weekly limit, allowing another booking within the same week.
If a senior citizen travels with a companion, regular fares will apply to the companion. However, if the companion is also aged 65 or above, one additional senior passenger per booking will be eligible for the discount, subject to separate verification through a registered mobile number.
For disabled passengers, the facility is currently available only through station counters, with plans to extend it to the online system in coordination with the Ministry of Social Welfare.
The circular said the new fare discount took effect from May 25.
