Effective May 1, 2025, the Indian Railways has implemented a significant policy change impacting waitlisted passengers. As per the new regulation, travelers holding waitlisted tickets will no longer be permitted to board sleeper or air-conditioned (AC) coaches. The move aims to streamline reserved travel and reduce overcrowding in these classes, according to recent reports.
Indian Railways Enforces New Rule: Waitlisted Passengers Barred from Sleeper, AC Travel from May 1
Restrictions on Reserved Coaches: Passengers holding waitlisted tickets—regardless of whether they were booked online or at physical counters—are now only allowed to travel in general (unreserved) coaches. Access to AC and sleeper coaches is strictly prohibited under the new rule.
Penalties for Rule Violations: Passengers found traveling in reserved coaches with waitlisted tickets will face monetary penalties under the new IRCTC regulations. Those caught in sleeper class without a confirmed reservation may be fined up to ₹250, while violators in air-conditioned (AC) classes could face fines of up to ₹440. The enforcement aims to ensure fair access for confirmed ticket holders and curb unauthorized travel in reserved compartments.
Strict Enforcement and Additional Charges: In addition to fines, violators may also be required to pay the fare from their boarding station to the next stop. Traveling Ticket Examiners (TTEs) have been directed to strictly enforce the new rules. Passengers holding waitlisted tickets who attempt to board reserved coaches at subsequent stations will be disembarked and penalized accordingly.
Advance Reservation Period (ARP) Reduced: The Advance Reservation Period has also been revised—from 120 days to 60 days. As a result, passengers can now book train tickets up to two months in advance, instead of the earlier four-month window.
Travel Advisory for Passengers: Travelers planning to journey in AC or sleeper classes must ensure their tickets are confirmed before the date of travel. Waitlisted tickets will no longer grant access to these reserved coaches. However, passengers with waitlisted tickets still have the option to travel in general (unreserved) coaches, which do not require advance reservations—offering a viable alternative for those unable to secure confirmed seats.
FAQs: Indian Railways New Rules Effective May 1, 2025
1. What is the new rule regarding waitlisted passengers?
Passengers holding waitlisted tickets are no longer allowed to travel in Sleeper or AC coaches. They must travel only in general (unreserved) coaches.
2. Does this apply to tickets booked online and at counters?
Yes, the rule applies to all waitlisted tickets, whether booked online (IRCTC) or through physical reservation counters.
3. What are the penalties for violating the rule?
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Sleeper Class Violation: Fine up to ₹250
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AC Class Violation: Fine up to ₹440
Additionally, passengers may be charged the fare from their boarding station to the next stop.
4. Will I be allowed to board a reserved coach if my ticket is still on the waiting list?
No. You will be stopped by TTEs and may be fined or disembarked at the next station. Only confirmed ticket holders can travel in reserved coaches.
5. Can waitlisted passengers travel in general coaches?
Yes, waitlisted passengers can travel in unreserved/general coaches, which do not require reservations.
6. Has the Advance Reservation Period (ARP) changed?
Yes. The ARP has been reduced from 120 days to 60 days, meaning tickets can now be booked up to two months in advance.
7. Who will enforce these new rules?
Traveling Ticket Examiners (TTEs) have been directed to strictly enforce these rules onboard trains.
