Indian Railways, which serves millions of passengers daily, is rolling out a significant change aimed at improving the travel experience for confirmed ticket holders. Starting from May 1, 2025, passengers traveling with a confirmed ticket will enjoy better services, while a new set of rules will come into effect for those on the waiting list.
Under these new guidelines, passengers holding a waiting list ticket will not be allowed to travel in sleeper or AC coaches. They will only be permitted to travel in the general class. This marks a big shift, particularly for those who often travel with a waiting list ticket and have previously enjoyed the option of occupying sleeper or AC coaches.
An important aspect to note is that if an online ticket booked through IRCTC ends up in the waiting list, it will be automatically cancelled. However, passengers with a waiting list ticket purchased at the counter can still travel in sleeper and AC coaches, a situation that will now change with the new policy.
New Rules for Better Passenger Experience
From May 1, passengers with a waiting list ticket will be restricted from traveling in sleeper or AC coaches. If any passenger with a waiting list ticket is found sitting in these coaches, the TTE (Train Ticket Examiner) will have the authority to either impose a fine or transfer them to the general class compartment.
According to Captain Shashi Kiran, Chief Public Relations Officer of North Western Railway, this rule has been implemented to ensure that confirmed ticket holders are not inconvenienced by waiting list passengers during their journey.
Addressing the Issue of Seat Occupation
The decision comes in response to frequent complaints of waiting list passengers trying to occupy seats meant for confirmed ticket holders in sleeper and AC coaches. This often leads to disputes and discomfort for others. Furthermore, when the number of waiting list passengers increases in these coaches, it causes blockages that impede the smooth movement of passengers, making the journey unpleasant for all.
For those who often travel with a waiting list ticket, this means the need for extra vigilance when planning travel, as the new regulations will now require more careful consideration of seat availability.
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