Railway Ticket Booking New Rules: Indian Railways has recently made a major change in the rules of train ticket booking. This new rule has come into effect from 1 November 2024. Under this change, now passengers will be able to book tickets only 60 days before the date of their journey. Earlier this time limit was 120 days. This decision has been taken to reduce the problem of ticket cancellation and no-shows.
According to the Railways, it was being observed for some time that about 21% of the tickets booked between 61 to 120 days were cancelled. Additionally, around 5% passengers neither canceled their tickets nor traveled. This new rule will help Railways in better planning of special trains during festive seasons and peak times. Also, more passengers are expected to get confirmed tickets.
Highlights of new ticket booking rules
| Description | new rule |
| effective date | 1 November 2024 |
| advance reservation period | 60 days |
| old reservation period | 120 days |
| Applicable Categories | Both AC and Non-AC |
| Reservation period for foreign tourists | 365 days (no change) |
| tatkal ticket booking | one day before the date of travel |
| Sleeper Class Tatkal Booking Timings | from 11 am |
| AC Class Tatkal Booking Timings | from 10 am |
Impact and benefits of the new rule
This new rule is expected to have a number of benefits:
- Reduction in ticket cancellations: The 60 day limit will give passengers more certainty about their journey, which will reduce cancellations.
- Better utilization of seats: Reducing the number of no-shows will result in better utilization of seats.
- Reduction in waiting list: The chances of more people getting confirmed tickets will increase.
- Better planning of special trains: Railways will be able to better estimate the number of passengers during the festive season.
- Ban on ticket brokers: Brokers who take long-term advantage will be curbed.
What will happen to already booked tickets?
Passengers who have already booked tickets under the old system of 120 days need not worry. Their tickets will remain valid and will not be affected. The new rule will be applicable only for bookings after November 1.
Railways’ AI use
Indian Railways is now also using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in its services. According to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav, the availability of train seats is being checked using AI models, which has led to an increase of up to 30% in the number of confirmed tickets.
Impact of the New Testament
impact on passengers
Travelers will now have to plan their travel within 60 days. This will help them be more certain about their schedule. However, some travelers may be initially troubled by this change, especially those who used to plan their journey long in advance.
impact on railways
Railways will now be able to better estimate passenger demand, which will enable them to plan additional trains. This will provide better facilities to passengers during festivals and peak season.
Impact on ticket availability
This rule is expected to improve the availability of tickets, as cancellations and no-shows will reduce. This can also reduce the problem of waiting list.
Important points for travelers
- New Deadline: From November 1, you will be able to book tickets only 60 days in advance.
- Old Bookings: Bookings made before November 1 will not be affected.
- Tatkal Ticket: The rules for Tatkal ticket booking will remain the same.
- Foreign Tourists: 365 days booking facility will continue for foreign tourists.
Precautions for travelers
- Keep in mind the new 60 day time limit when booking tickets.
- Try to book tickets exactly 60 days before your travel date.
- Be online at the right time for Tatkal tickets.
- For any problem use IRCTC helpline.
Changes in IRCTC app and website
IRCTC has updated its app and website as per the new rules. Now whenever you try to book a ticket, the system will show you only dates within 60 days.
Impact on special trains
This new rule will also be applicable to special trains run during festivals and peak season. However, Railways has said that they will now be able to plan special trains in a better way, which will provide more convenience to the passengers.
Change in ticket cancellation policy
With the new rule, Railways has also made some changes in the ticket cancellation policy:
- Cancellation charges have been reduced on tickets booked more than 60 days in advance.
- Full refund will be given on cancellation up to 48 hours before the date of travel.
- Cancellations made in less than 48 hours will be refunded with some deductions.
Impact on Tatkal ticket booking
There has been no change in the rules for Tatkal ticket booking. Passengers can still book Tatkal tickets a day before the date of journey. Booking for sleeper class will start from 11 am and for AC class from 10 am.
Rules for foreign tourists
The facility to book tickets 365 days in advance will continue for foreign tourists. This rule is for those foreign tourists who make long term plans to visit India.
Other Railway Reforms
Apart from this new rule, Railways has also made several other reforms:
- Increasing the speed of trains: The speed of trains has been increased on many routes, due to which the travel time has reduced.
- Modernization of stations: Big stations are being equipped with modern facilities.
- Emphasis on cleanliness: Special attention is being paid to the cleanliness of trains and stations.
- Promotion of digital payment: Digital payment is being encouraged for ticket booking and other services.
Passengers’ reaction
There have been mixed reactions from passengers on the new rule:
- Some passengers believe that this will make it easier to get tickets.
- Some people feel that the 60 day time limit is short and will affect their travel plans.
- Many people have welcomed this move as it will curb ticket touts.
Disclaimer: This article is based on the new ticket booking rules of Indian Railways. All information is correct and up to date, but rules are subject to change. Please verify information from official sources before traveling. This article is for informational purposes only and personal research is essential before making any type of travel plans.