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Starting May 1, Indian Railways has revamped its ticket booking and cancellation policies, aiming for a more secure, efficient, and passenger-friendly system. This overhaul includes the introduction of OTP verification for ticket bookings, a reduced advance booking window, and expedited refunds for cancelled tickets, alongside changes in luggage rules and cancellation charges. These modifications are designed to ease the travel experience, curb ticket misuse, and support digital transactions.
To boost security for online bookings, IRCTC now mandates OTP verification. This step requires passengers to authenticate their mobile numbers before payment, ensuring the person booking the ticket is the actual traveller. This measure applies across the board, covering both registered and unregistered users, thus fortifying the privacy and security of the booking process.
Streamlining Advance Bookings and Refunds
The advance booking period has been cut from 120 days to 90 days for most trains. This restriction, however, does not apply to special or festival trains. The Railway Board believes that this adjustment will enhance train schedule management and optimize train usage.
In addition, Indian Railways has significantly improved its refund process for cancelled tickets. Now, passengers can expect to receive refunds within 48 hours, a substantial improvement from the previous 5-7 day window. This swift refund policy is applicable to both online and counter bookings, provided the tickets are linked to the passenger's bank account.
Cancellation Charges and Ticket Validity
Ticket validity is strictly tied to the specific train and date mentioned on the ticket. E-tickets, which passengers can display on mobile devices, eliminate the need for a physical copy. For cancellations made more than 48 hours before departure, a fixed cancellation fee is levied per passenger. The fees vary by class, with the highest being Rs 240 for AC First Class or Executive Class and the lowest at Rs 60 for Second Class. Cancellations made closer to departure, between 48 and 12 hours before, incur a 25% deduction from the ticket fare, subject to the minimum fixed charges.
Regulations on Luggage and Waitlisted Tickets
The new rules also dictate that as of May 1, 2025, passengers with waitlisted tickets will not be allowed to travel in sleeper or AC coaches. This measure is likely aimed at ensuring comfort and security for all passengers aboard.
Regarding luggage, Indian Railways has set specific weight limits according to travel class. AC First Class passengers are allowed up to 70 kg, while those in AC 2-Tier or First Class have a 50 kg limit. For AC 3-Tier, AC Chair Car, or Sleeper Class, the limit is set at 40 kg.
No Refunds for Tatkal Ticket Cancellations
For Tatkal tickets, which are booked at short notice, no refund is available upon cancellation of confirmed bookings. However, for contingent cancellation and waitlisted Tatkal ticket cancellations, the deductions will be made in accordance with the existing Railway rules.
These comprehensive changes by Indian Railways aim to simplify the booking and travel process, making it more transparent, secure, and user-friendly for passengers. The move towards digital enhancements and the introduction of stricter rules reflect the Railways' commitment to improving passenger experience while ensuring operational efficiency.
