IRCTC has introduced a major change to its ticket booking policy, which will take effect on November 1, 2024. Under this new rule, passengers can now book tickets up to only 60 days in advance, instead of the previous 120-day limit. The 365-day advance booking for foreign tourists will continue to be available.
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Key Details of the New Ticket Booking Rule
| Details | New Rule |
|---|---|
| Advance Booking Period | 60 days |
| Effective Date | November 1, 2024 |
| Applicable Classes | All AC and non-AC classes |
| Excluded Trains | Certain daytime express trains (e.g., Taj Express, Gomti Express) |
| Foreign Tourists | 365-day advance booking continues |
| Impact on Existing Bookings | No impact |
| Cancellation Policy | No change |
Benefits and Objectives of the New Rule
| Benefits | Objective |
|---|---|
| Reduced Ticket Cancellations | Booking closer to travel dates helps reduce cancellations. |
| Prioritization of Genuine Travelers | Increases chances for genuine travelers to secure tickets. |
| Prevention of Ticket Hoarding | Shorter booking window curtails ticket hoarding and resale. |
| Better Seat Availability | More seats will be available for actual travelers. |
| Improved Revenue for Railways | Less cancellation and no-show tickets lead to higher revenue for the railway. |
Possible Challenges and Exceptions
| Challenges | Exceptions |
|---|---|
| Less Time for Ticket Booking | Daytime express trains like the Taj Express and Gomti Express are exempt. |
| Booking Difficulty During Festivals | Foreign tourists can still book tickets up to 365 days in advance. |
| Long-Distance Travel Planning | All bookings made up to October 31, 2024, will remain valid. |
Tips for Passengers
- Plan Ahead: Make travel plans well in advance.
- Mark the Calendar: Keep track of your last booking date.
- Use the IRCTC App: For convenient booking, use the IRCTC mobile app.
- Have an Alternative Plan: Prepare an alternate travel plan if tickets are unavailable.
Disclaimer: This information is sourced from official railway announcements. Passengers should always verify updates on IRCTC’s official website or helpline, as policies may change at any time.
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