Indian Railways has implemented a significant policy change, allowing passengers to book vacant seats on Vande Bharat Express and other reserved trains up to 15 minutes before their scheduled departure. This move aims to reduce the number of unoccupied seats and provide greater flexibility for last-minute travelers.
New Booking Window Explained
Previously, once the final reservation chart for a train was prepared, typically a few hours before departure, no further bookings could be made. This often resulted in empty seats remaining unused, even if there were passengers willing to travel at short notice.
Under the revised system, any seats that remain unoccupied after the initial chart preparation will now stay available for booking. This window remains open until just 15 minutes before the train is set to depart from its origin station. The change is designed to maximize seat utilization across the extensive railway network.
How to Secure a Last-Minute Seat
Passengers can access this updated facility through multiple official channels. Bookings can be made via the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) website, the IRCTC Rail Connect mobile application, or at authorized Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters located at railway stations.
It is important to note that this option will only appear if genuine vacancies exist after the initial reservation chart has been finalized. Availability will, therefore, vary significantly depending on the specific train, route, and demand.
Who Benefits from the Policy Change?
This new flexibility is particularly advantageous for individuals who need to undertake urgent or unplanned journeys. It also offers a second chance for those who might have missed the regular booking window or were unable to secure a confirmed ticket initially. By keeping berths accessible closer to departure, Railways expects to improve overall seat occupancy rates across its premium and reserved services.
Important Advice for Travelers
Railways advises all passengers utilizing this new system to check seat availability before heading to the station. It is also crucial to arrive at the station well in advance of the scheduled departure time, carry valid identity proof, and ensure all bookings are made exclusively through official IRCTC channels or authorized PRS counters to avoid fraudulent practices.