Advance reservation period for train tickets reduced from 120 to 60 days

the Indian Railways has announced a reduction in the advance reservation period for train tickets from 120 days to 60 days, effective November 1. This decision aims to enhance passenger convenience and streamline the booking process, addressing long-standing criticisms regarding the previous extended duration. Importantly, this change will not affect tickets that have already been booked under the previous 120-day rule.

Historically, the advance reservation period was 60 days until April 1, 2015, when it was extended to 120 days. At that time, Indian Railways justified this extension as a way to discourage ticket touting and increase revenue through cancellation charges. However, critics argued that the extension primarily served to boost cash flow by collecting interest over the extra 60 days and increasing the number of cancellations.

In addition to reducing the booking period, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has unveiled plans to eliminate the long-standing issue of waiting lists within the next five to six years. This initiative aims to ensure that every traveler can secure a confirmed berth when booking tickets, significantly improving the overall passenger experience.

To further modernize operations, the IRCTC plans to launch a comprehensive “super app” that will revolutionize passenger interaction with Indian Railways. This app will offer a range of services, from ticket booking to travel planning and real-time train status updates, making the entire travel process more user-friendly and efficient.

The Indian Railways is also implementing AI-enabled cameras to monitor service quality, including linen cleanliness and food hygiene. These systems will analyze data to predict seat availability and optimize train occupancy, enhancing operational efficiency. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav mentioned that one AI model previously used led to a 30% increase in the rate of confirmed ticket allocations.

To combat ticketless travel, the Railways Ministry has intensified enforcement measures, particularly targeting police personnel who frequently violate ticketing regulations. Recent surprise checks revealed numerous policemen traveling in AC coaches without tickets, disrupting the experiences of legitimate passengers. The Ministry has directed a comprehensive ticket-checking drive during the festive season to ensure compliance and enhance passenger safety and comfort.