Indian Railways has introduced an online booking service to make pet travel more convenient. According to an india Today article, pet owners can now fly in AC First Class with their dogs and cats without having to deal with the inconvenience of standing in lengthy lines at parcel offices. There are solutions for pet travel, such as special dog crates on some trains that may be obtained through the parcel office. After making a reservation, small pets that fit in a basket, such as pups and kittens, can travel in any class.
Pets are allowed to fly with their owners in an AC First Class cabin with four beds or a two-berth coupe as long as the entire cabin is reserved under a single PNR. There are standard booking fees. Passengers must make reservations for these cabins by contacting the general manager's office or the divisional railway manager since these requests are given priority.
Here’s how to book your pet’s travel:
1. Book your ticket via the irctc website and carry a printed copy.
2. Ensure your pet is vaccinated and carry vaccination records as proof.
3. Obtain a certificate from a vet detailing your pet’s breed, color, and gender.
4. Bring your pet to the luggage office at least three hours before departure for booking.
Pets are not allowed in other classes, such as AC 2-tier, AC 3-tier, or Sleeper Class, and each PNR only permits one pet. Additionally, travelers should be aware that railroad employees may request that passengers remove their pets from the compartment if they cause disruptions. This project is a major step toward a more seamless and pet-friendly travel experience for pet owners.