Railway General Ticket New Update: Keeping in mind the convenience of passengers, Indian Railways has made important changes in the rules of ticket booking. These new rules, which will come into effect from November 1, 2024, aim to make it easier for passengers to plan their journey and curb black marketing of tickets. In this article, we will learn about these new rules in detail and understand how these changes will prove beneficial for the passengers.
This step of the Railways will not only simplify the ticket booking process for the passengers, but will also prove helpful for the Railways in assessing the actual demand of the passengers. Let us know about these new rules in detail and understand how they will make travel more convenient.
Highlights of new ticket booking rules
| Speciality | Description |
| Date of entry into force | 1 November 2024 |
| New Advance Reservation Period (ARP) | 60 days |
| old advance reservation period | 120 days |
| Applicable Categories | All Categories (AC & Non-AC) |
| Objective | Stopping black marketing, promoting needy passengers |
| Effect | Ease of travel planning |
| ARP for foreign tourists | 365 days (unchanged) |
| Impact on already booked tickets | no effect |
Change in Advance Reservation Period (ARP)
Indian Railways has reduced the Advance Reservation Period (ARP) from 120 days to 60 days. This means that now passengers will be able to book tickets only 60 days in advance of their travel date. This rule will be applicable to all categories and will not affect already booked tickets.
Purpose of the New Testament
Railways says that the main objective of this change is to promote needy passengers and to stop black marketing of tickets. This decision has been taken after high cancellation of already booked tickets. This will help Railways to accurately assess the actual demand of passengers.
Impact of the New Testament
Changes in booking window
Now passengers will have only 60 days to book tickets. This change will provide more flexibility to passengers in planning their journey. Passengers will now be able to book tickets closer to their journey, reducing the need to alter their schedules.
ban on black marketing
This change will curb black marketing of tickets. The short time frame will make it difficult for brokers to reserve tickets for a long period of time. This will make it easier for common passengers to book tickets directly.
improve travel plans
It will be easier for travelers to plan their journey. The 60-day time limit will allow passengers to book tickets as per their schedule. This is also expected to reduce the number of cancellations.
On which categories will the new rule apply?
The new rule will apply equally to all categories. This includes both AC and non-AC categories. Whether you are traveling in Sleeper Class or AC First Class, the advance reservation period of 60 days will be applicable to all.
What will happen to already booked tickets?
This new rule will not apply to already booked tickets. Tickets booked under 120 days ARP till 31 October 2024 will remain valid. Passengers need not worry about their already booked tickets.
Impact of rules on special trains
Taj Express and Gomti Express
No changes have been made for some daytime express trains like Taj Express and Gomti Express. Short reservation period is already applicable in these trains, hence the new rule will not be applicable on them.
Rules for foreign tourists
The booking limit of 365 days for foreign tourists will continue as before. This rule of Indian Railways applies to Indian passengers and foreign tourists will not have to make any changes in their itinerary.
benefit of new rule
Benefits for travelers
- Flexible planning: Passengers will now be able to book tickets closer to their journey, reducing chances of changes in plans.
- Less Cancellations: The number of cancellations is expected to come down due to shorter deadlines.
- Better Availability: Ticket availability for genuine passengers will improve.
Benefits for Railways
- Better planning: Railways will be able to plan special trains better during peak season.
- Assessment of actual demand: The 60 day limit will help Railways to accurately assess the actual demand of passengers.
- Increase in revenue: Railways’ revenue is likely to increase due to less cancellations and better seat utilization.
Use of AI and improvement in passenger amenities
Indian Railways has started using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in its services. This is improving the availability of train seats and cleanliness.
Impact of AI models
- Increased seat availability: Seat availability has been increased by 30% with the help of AI models.
- Improvement in Hygiene: Hygiene levels are improving in railway kitchens with the help of AI-based cameras.
- Improving passenger experience: Passengers are getting better services and facilities with the use of AI.
Impact of new rules on different passenger groups
common traveler
This rule will prove beneficial for common travelers. They will now be able to book tickets closer to their journey, reducing the need to alter their schedules. This will also reduce the number of cancellations.
business traveler
Business travelers will get more flexibility in planning their travel. They will now be able to book tickets as per their business schedules.
students and examinees
This rule can be challenging for students and examinees. They may need to book tickets in advance as per their exam schedule. However, the Railways has said that it will keep the needs of this group in mind.
Implementation and monitoring of new rules
implementation process
Railways will implement this new rule from November 1, 2024. IRCTC website and mobile app will be updated as per this change. Notices regarding this change will also be put up at stations.
Monitoring and Review
Railways will continuously monitor the impact of this new rule. Reviews and changes will be made as necessary based on passenger feedback and ticket booking patterns.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Although we have tried to provide accurate information, railway rules are subject to change. Please get the latest information from the official website of Indian Railways or the nearest railway station before planning your journey. The author or publisher will not be responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided in this article.
