Indian Railways has introduced a vital fallback mechanism for railway pensioners and persons with disabilities facing technical hurdles with the Human Resource Management System (HRMS). Following persistent reports of e-pass module glitches, particularly in regions like Prayagraj, the Railway Board issued new guidelines on July 15, 2026, ensuring that eligible individuals are not inconvenienced during their travel. This directive serves as a temporary relief measure while the digital infrastructure undergoes further refinement.
- Manual passes are now permitted immediately when HRMS technical issues occur.
- This interim measure will be subject to a formal review after three months.
- All manual pass issuances must be recorded in the HRMS module to track and fix bugs.
- The policy aims to ensure seamless travel for pensioners and those with disabilities.
Addressing the Digital Transition
The transition to a fully digital system began on May 29, 2026, with Indian Railways aiming to streamline the issuance of post-retirement complimentary and privilege passes. By June 1, 2026, the digital pass became mandatory, allowing beneficiaries to book tickets directly through PRS counters and the IRCTC portal. However, as Zonal Railways reported operational difficulties, the board stepped in to provide a manual alternative to prevent travel disruptions.
Ensuring System Accountability
While the railway administration has opened the door for manual intervention, officials have clarified that HRMS remains the primary and official system for pass issuance. To ensure transparency, staff must document the specific reasons for issuing a manual pass within the HRMS e-pass module. This data is critical for the Center for Railway Information System (CRIS) to identify recurring technical deficiencies and implement permanent solutions. By maintaining this log, Indian Railways hopes to stabilize the digital platform while safeguarding the travel rights of its retired personnel and employees with disabilities.