Indian Railways has recently made some important changes in the rules of Tatkal ticket booking. These new rules have been brought with the aim of making the ticket booking process more convenient for passengers. Now booking Tatkal tickets on IRCTC website and Rail Connect mobile app has become easier than ever.
Under these new rules, Tatkal ticket booking timings have changed and some new features have also been added. This has increased the chances of passengers getting a confirmed seat even at the last minute. Additionally, transparency in the ticket booking process has also increased.
New rules of Tatkal Ticket Booking
Many important changes have been made in the new rules of Tatkal ticket booking. Let’s take a look at these key changes:
| shift | Description |
| booking time | AC Class – 10:00 am, Non-AC Class – 11:00 am |
| maximum passengers | 4 passengers on one PNR |
| ID proof | Aadhar Card, PAN Card, Passport or Driving License mandatory |
| online booking | Priority to IRCTC website and app |
| Refund Policy | Only in case of train cancellation or delay of more than 3 hours |
| booking period | a day before the trip |
New time for Tatkal Ticket Booking
According to the new rules, Tatkal ticket booking time for AC class will start from 10:00 am. Whereas for Non-AC class this time will be from 11:00 am. This change has been made with the aim of giving more time to passengers to book tickets.
maximum passenger limit
Now Tatkal tickets can be booked only for maximum 4 passengers on one PNR. For more passengers than this, booking will have to be done on a separate PNR. This rule has been brought to ensure fair distribution of tickets.
Mandatory requirement of ID proof
It has now become mandatory to provide valid ID proof while booking Tatkal tickets. Valid ID proof includes Aadhar Card, PAN Card, Passport or Driving License. This rule has been brought to prevent fraud in ticket booking.
Priority for online booking
IRCTC has encouraged passengers to book tickets online through the IRCTC website or Rail Connect mobile app. Bookings made on these platforms will be given priority.
Revised Refund Policy
Under the new policy, refund on Tatkal tickets will be available only if the train is canceled or delayed by more than 3 hours. Refunds will not be given in other circumstances.
How to book Tatkal ticket on IRCTC website
The process of booking Tatkal tickets on the IRCTC website is quite simple. You can easily book tickets by following the following steps:
- Go to the official website of IRCTC and login.
- Click on ‘Book Ticket’ option.
- Fill the journey details like station, date etc.
- Select ‘Tatkal’ quota.
- Select the train of your choice from the available trains.
- Fill the passengers details and ID proof.
- Make payment and book tickets.
Tatkal Ticket Booking on Rail Connect App
Booking Tatkal tickets is even easier on Rail Connect mobile app. Follow these steps to book tickets on the app:
- Download Rail Connect app and login.
- Tap on ‘Book Ticket’ on the home screen.
- Select journey details and Tatkal quota.
- Select from available trains.
- Enter passenger details and ID proof.
- Select the payment option and complete the process.
Tips for Tatkal Ticket Booking
Some useful tips to secure Tatkal ticket:
- Please login a few minutes before the booking starts.
- Have your and your passengers’ details ready in advance.
- Use a fast internet connection.
- Choose instant payment options like UPI or Net Banking.
- Use IRCTC e-wallet to speed up the payment process.
Fee for Tatkal Ticket
Tatkal tickets charge higher than normal tickets. This fee varies according to category:
- Second Sitting (2s): ₹10 – ₹15
- Sleeper Class (SL): ₹100 – ₹200
- AC Chair Car (CC): ₹125 – ₹225
- 3AC: ₹300 – ₹400
- 2AC: ₹400 – ₹500
- 1AC: ₹500
Benefits of Tatkal Ticket Booking
There are many benefits of Tatkal ticket booking system:
- Tatkal Travel: You can get a ticket even if you plan a sudden journey.
- Guaranteed Seat: Chances of getting a confirmed seat are higher.
- Time Saving: Online booking saves time.
- Convenient: Tickets can be booked while sitting at home.
- Transparency: The entire process is transparent which reduces the chances of fraud.
Disadvantages of Tatkal Ticket Booking
There are also some disadvantages of Tatkal booking that travelers should be aware of:
- Higher Fare: Fares are higher than normal tickets.
- Limited Availability: There are limited Tatkal seats in every train.
- No Refund: In most cases no refund is available.
- Stress: You may feel stressed and pressured at the time of booking.
- Technical Problems: Sometimes technical problems may cause problems in booking.
Important information for Tatkal Ticket Booking
Some additional important information for Tatkal ticket booking:
- Tatkal tickets can be booked only one day before the date of journey.
- A passenger can book a maximum of 6 Tatkal tickets in a month.
- There is no child concession on Tatkal tickets.
- Tatkal tickets do not guarantee a seat/berth, but the chances of getting a confirmed ticket are higher.
- If you are unable to book a Tatkal ticket, there is also the option of Premium Tatkal available which has slightly higher fares.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Although we have tried to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the policies of IRCTC and Indian Railways are subject to change from time to time. Please confirm the latest terms and conditions from IRCTC official website or helpline before booking Tatkal tickets. The author or publisher is not liable for any errors or omissions. You are responsible for any decisions regarding ticket booking.
