Indian Railways To Release Ticket Status 10 Hrs Before Departure; 6000+ Stations Get Free WiFi

To reduce uncertainty and help travellers plan their journeys smoothly, Indian Railways has taken a new step. The authorities have revised the timing for preparing the first reservation chart. Travellers can now check their ticket status up to 10 hours before departure. Here’s everything you need to know about this new change. 

Indian Railways To Prepare Reservation Charts Earlier 

According to a report by India Today, this is the first time the Railway Board has revised the chart preparation schedule. Earlier, reservation charts were prepared just four hours before departure. This often kept passengers, especially those on waiting lists, anxious till the last minute, with no clarity on their travel plans. The new change announced by Indian Railways is expected to ease that stress.

Passengers will now know their ticket status up to 10 hours in advance. This will help them plan accommodation, connecting journeys, or alternative travel arrangements if their ticket does not get confirmed. They will now have a wider window of nearly 10 hours to look for other travel options like buses, flights or other trains. The move will also reduce last-minute stress for passengers travelling from remote areas to board long-distance trains.

Also Read: Travellers, Indian Railways Makes OTP Verification Mandatory For Tatkal Tickets Starting Dec 1

New Reservation Chart Timings 

According to India Today, here are the revised chart preparation timings announced by Indian Railways: 

• For trains departing between 5 am and 2 pm, the first reservation chart will be prepared by 8 pm on the previous day.
• For trains departing between 2:01 pm and 11:59 pm, and between 12 am and 5 am, the first reservation chart will be prepared 10 hours before departure.

Reportedly, the Railway Board has instructed all zonal divisions to implement this revised schedule with immediate effect. The decision is expected to improve travel planning for millions of passengers and make the reservation process more transparent regarding vacant berths, which can be viewed on the IRCTC website or the mobile application before departure. 

Apart from this, Indian Railways has also rolled out free Wi-Fi at over 6,117 stations nationwide to improve passenger connectivity. According to a report by India TV News, users only need to enter their mobile number to generate a one-time password. The free Wi-Fi will ensure smooth connectivity during waits, journeys, and layovers.
The authorities are also working on boosting CCTV surveillance to strengthen security. So far, CCTV systems cover 1,731 stations and 11,953 coaches. This move aims to create a safer travel environment for passengers.

Also Read: IndiGo Refunds ₹610 Crore; Indian Railways Steps In To Help With Special Trains & Help Desks

What do you think of this decision by Indian Railways? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.

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