Indian Railways has implemented strict new rules for passengers holding waiting tickets. Effective immediately, individuals with unconfirmed reservations will no longer be permitted to board reserved coaches, regardless of whether the ticket was purchased online or at a counter. Those found violating this rule will face deboarding at the next station and a hefty fine.
This decisive move aims to alleviate overcrowding in reserved compartments, a persistent issue that has led to discomfort and inconvenience for passengers with confirmed tickets. For years, there has been a misconception that holding a waiting ticket, particularly one obtained from a counter, grants access to reserved accommodations. This practice has resulted in overcrowded coaches and widespread dissatisfaction among passengers.
To deter non-compliance, Indian Railways has established clear penalties for those caught traveling in reserved coaches with waiting tickets. Offenders will be required to disembark at the nearest station and pay a fine, which varies based on the coach type. The fine includes a base amount plus the fare from the boarding station to the point of deboarding.
To deter this practice, the railway authority has introduced hefty penalties for offenders. Passengers found traveling in reserved coaches with waiting tickets will face deboarding at the next station and a substantial fine. The penalty amount varies based on the class of travel:
AC coaches: ₹440 + fare to the next station
Sleeper coaches: ₹250 + fare to the next station
Additionally, the practice of purchasing a general ticket and occupying an AC coach seat has been discontinued.
Passengers with waiting tickets now have two options: either travel in unreserved coaches or cancel their tickets to avoid penalties. The practice of generating receipts for higher class travel using general tickets has also been discontinued.
It is essential for passengers to be aware of these changes and plan their journeys accordingly. Cancelling waiting tickets in advance can help avoid unnecessary inconvenience and financial penalties.
Indian Railways' recent decision to strictly enforce rules against passengers traveling with waiting tickets marks a significant step towards improving the overall travel experience. By imposing hefty penalties and deboarding offenders, the railway authority aims to curb overcrowding in reserved coaches and ensure a more comfortable journey for confirmed ticket holders.
While this change might inconvenience some passengers, it is expected to lead to a more organized and efficient railway system in the long run. The policy shift also underscores the importance of planning ahead and securing confirmed tickets for a hassle-free travel experience.