If you’ve heard the buzz about Indian Railways’ new rule making waiting tickets practically useless, you’re not alone. Social media and WhatsApp groups have been buzzing with this news, causing quite a bit of confusion. Let’s clear the air.
Half-Truths and Misunderstandings
First off, there’s some truth and some exaggeration in what you’ve been hearing. Let’s break it down. Indian Railways offers two main ways to purchase tickets: through the traditional counter method and online via the IRCTC website or app.
Counter Tickets
For years, people have gone to railway counters, filled out a form, and bought tickets. If the ticket is a waiting one, it’s up to the passenger to decide whether to take it or not. The counter clerk will ask if you still want the ticket even if it’s on the waiting list.
Online Tickets
Online, the process is straightforward. You check the availability on the IRCTC website or app. If you book a waiting ticket and it doesn’t get confirmed, the ticket is automatically canceled, and your money is refunded.
The Real Deal with Counter Tickets
There’s a common belief that if you buy a waiting ticket from the counter, you can still board a reserved coach like Sleeper or AC, and sort it out with the TTE (Travelling Ticket Examiner) or fellow passengers. But as widely discussed, this is not entirely accurate.
No New Rule, Just Stricter Enforcement
The rule that you can’t enter reserved coaches with a waiting ticket isn’t new. It’s been in place for a while, but enforcement has become stricter. If you’re caught in a reserved coach with a waiting ticket, you could be fined a minimum of ₹440, along with the fare for the distance traveled.
Why the Stricter Enforcement?
Indian Railways received thousands of complaints about overcrowded reserved coaches, where even confirmed ticket holders struggled to find seats. This prompted the authorities to enforce the existing rules more strictly.
What You Should Do
If you have a waiting ticket, it’s best to cancel it at the counter at least half an hour before your journey and make alternative travel arrangements. Let us know your thoughts on this rule in the comments section below!
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