Starting November 1, 2024, Indian Railways has implemented a significant change in its ticket booking policy, reducing the advance reservation period from 120 days to 60 days. This adjustment aims to enhance seat availability and reduce the high rate of cancellations.
Indian Railways Updates Ticket Booking Rules
Previously, passengers could book train tickets up to 120 days in advance. With the new policy, this window has been shortened to 60 days, excluding the day of travel. For instance, if your journey is on December 1, you can book your ticket starting from October 2.
Impact on Existing Reservations
Reservations made before October 31, 2024, under the 120-day advance reservation period, remain valid. Passengers who have booked tickets beyond the new 60-day limit can still cancel their reservations if needed.
Exceptions to the Rule
Certain daytime express trains, such as the Taj Express and Gomti Express, which already have shorter booking windows, are not affected by this change. Additionally, the 365-day advance reservation period for foreign tourists remains unchanged, allowing ample time for international travelers to plan their journeys.
Reasons Behind the Change
The decision to reduce the booking window stems from data indicating that approximately 21% of tickets booked between 61 to 120 days in advance were canceled. Furthermore, about 5% of passengers neither canceled their tickets nor traveled, leading to inefficiencies in seat allocation. By shortening the reservation period, Indian Railways aims to encourage genuine bookings and improve seat availability for travelers.
Benefits for Passengers
This policy change is expected to reduce the number of cancellations and no-shows, thereby increasing the chances of confirmed tickets for passengers. It also allows for better planning of special trains during peak seasons, ensuring that more travelers can secure seats during high-demand periods.
Planning Your Journey
With the new 60-day booking window, it’s advisable to plan your travel accordingly. For those who prefer booking well in advance, this change necessitates adjusting your planning timeline. Staying informed about such updates will help in making seamless travel arrangements.
Conclusion
The reduction in the advance reservation period by Indian Railways is a strategic move to enhance operational efficiency and passenger convenience. By understanding and adapting to these changes, travelers can continue to enjoy smooth and hassle-free journeys across the railway network.
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