Kazakh passenger suggests age limit for upper train berths

Tengrinews.kz – A Kazakh traveler has proposed an unusual rule for train passengers after repeatedly facing requests from elderly travelers to give up his lower berth seat. He suggested setting an age restriction on the sale of upper berths to avoid such conflicts.

Speaking to Tengrinews, the man said he often books a lower berth in advance on Talgo trains, even paying extra for comfort. However, despite having a valid ticket, he is frequently asked by elderly passengers to give up his seat.

“I often see the same situation: elderly passengers insist on taking only the lower berths. Even if I’ve booked one in a two-bed compartment, it doesn’t always mean I can actually travel in my seat. Many times, older travelers immediately demand I give it up, citing traditions and upbringing,” he explained, adding that conductors usually avoid intervening.

He suggested that Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ) should consider restricting the sale of upper berths to senior passengers in order to prevent disputes.

Response from the railway operator

In response, the press service of Passenger Transportation stated that no such rule exists in Kazakhstan or internationally.

“All seats in a carriage are equal, and every passenger has the right to occupy the place they selected and paid for,” the company noted.

The operator recommended planning trips in advance to secure the most comfortable seats and emphasized that conductors are responsible for maintaining order and assisting passengers when needed.