Train ticket booking time will change from December 5: Know the new timing and rules – StudyToper

Indian Railways has made a major change in the rules of train ticket booking. This new rule is going to be implemented from December 5, under which passengers will now be able to book tickets only 60 days before the date of their journey. Earlier this time limit was 120 days. The main objective of this change is 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.

Highlights of new ticket booking rules

Impact and benefits of the new rule

This new rule is expected to have a number of benefits:

1. Reduction in ticket cancellations: The 60 day limit will give passengers more certainty about their journey, which will reduce cancellations.
2. Better utilization of seats: Reducing the number of no-shows will result in better utilization of seats.
3. Reduction in waiting list: The chances of more people getting confirmed tickets will increase.
4. Better planning of special trains: Railways will be able to better estimate the number of passengers during the festive season.
5. 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 December 5.

No change in 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 AC class will start from 10 am and for sleeper class from 11 am.

Rules for foreign tourists

There has been no change in the reservation period of 365 days for foreign tourists. This facility will help them plan their journey long in advance.

Role of IRCTC

Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) will play an important role in implementing these new rules. Ticket booking can be done on IRCTC website and mobile app from December 5 only as per the new rules.

Tips for travelers

1. Plan your journey well in time.
2. Keep in mind the new limit of 60 days when booking tickets.
3. Follow the old rules for Tatkal tickets.
4. For any inconvenience contact IRCTC helpline.

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

1. Impact on travelers: Travelers will now have to plan their travel within 60 days. This will help them be more certain about their schedule.
2. Impact on Railways: Railways will now be able to better estimate passenger demand, enabling them to plan additional trains.
3. Impact on ticket availability: This rule is expected to improve ticket availability as cancellations and no-shows will reduce.

Important points for travelers

• New deadline: From December 5, you will be able to book tickets only 60 days in advance.
• Old Bookings: Bookings made before December 5 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.

The logic behind the new rule

Railways has taken this step for several reasons:

1. Reduction in cancellations: Cancellation rates were higher in long-term bookings.
2. Better seat allotment: Shorter time limit will allow better allotment of seats.
3. Passenger Facilitation: It will help the passengers to plan their journey accordingly.
4. Ban on brokers: Abuse of long term booking by ticket brokers will be stopped.

Other initiatives of Railways

Apart from this new rule, Railways has also taken several other initiatives:

1. Use of AI: Use of AI models to check seat availability.
2. Focus on cleanliness: Use of AI-based cameras in railway kitchens.
3. Digital Initiatives: Promotion of e-ticketing and digital payments.
4. Passenger Facilities: Development of better facilities at stations.

Precautions for travelers

1. Keep in mind the new 60 day time limit when booking tickets.
2. Try to book tickets exactly 60 days before your travel date.
3. Be online at the right time for Tatkal tickets.
4. For any problem use IRCTC helpline.

future prospects

Railways will continuously evaluate the impact of this new rule. In future, further changes may be made based on passenger feedback and booking patterns. Railways aims to provide better service to passengers and make efficient use of its resources.

conclusion

The new ticket booking rule can prove beneficial for both railways and passengers. This will help reduce the problem of ticket cancellations and no-shows, as well as help passengers plan their journey better. Although it may initially take time for some passengers to adjust to the new rule, in the long run this arrangement may provide better ticket availability and travel experience.

Disclaimer:

This information has been collected from publicly available sources. However, the Railways has not officially announced that the new rules will come into effect from December 5. In fact, Railways had announced to reduce the advance reservation period from 120 days to 60 days from November 1, 2024. Passengers are advised to check the latest information on the official website of Railways or IRCTC. Rules are subject to change and it is important that travelers rely on accurate and up-to-date information.