Indian Railways has updated its advance train ticket booking rules, reducing the reservation period from 120 days to 60 days. This change will come into effect from November 1, 2024, according to TOI. The new rule means passengers will now be able to book IRCTC train tickets only 60 days in advance of the scheduled train departure.
Key Highlights of the New Rule:
- Advance Booking Period Reduced: The booking window has been shortened to 60 days from the current 120 days.
- Effective Date: The new rule will come into effect on November 1, 2024.
- Impact on Existing Reservations: The rule will not affect tickets that have already been booked.
- Reason for Change: The update aims to prevent issues faced by passengers when trains are canceled, allowing more flexible travel plans.
Additionally, Indian Railways is incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance its operational efficiency. The AI model has improved the allocation of train seats, increasing the rate of confirmed tickets by 30%. This new system predicts seat availability after the reservation chart is prepared, allowing the railways to allocate seats more effectively to passengers on the waiting list.
These changes mark a significant shift in Indian Railways’ approach to both ticket bookings and technological advancements in the reservation system.
