Big news from Indian Railways! IRCTC is about to drop a new rule that railway folks think will be a game-changer for travelers. Basically, you’ll be able to switch your travel date without ditching your ticket altogether. Yep, change your confirmed ticket date without those annoying cancellation fees. This should make train trips way easier for everyone.
What Is Unique About the New Facility?
With the new system in place, passengers can change the travel date of tickets they have already confirmed on the online platform. There will be no need for the customer to cancel the ticket or rebook the ticket. If there is an available seat for the new date, the passenger will be allowed to easily change the travel dates of their tickets without having to pay any extra additional charges or issued a new ticket.
What Is the Current Process?
Currently, if a passenger wishes to change their travel plans, she must cancel the old ticket, and purchase a new one. There is also a cancellation fee involved. If the ticket is canceled between 48 hours and 12 hours before departure time, 25 percent of the amount will be deducted. If the ticket is canceled within 12 hours of departure time, there is a deduction of 50 percent.
When Will the New Facility Commence?
Reports would indicate that this new facility will be available in January 20206. The IRCTC and Ministry of Railways will come out with more details regarding any rules, eligibility and process on their official websites. The Railway Ministry has mentioned that the rationale for this new seat change is to provide more travel flexibility and ease the inconvenience faced by passenger when cancelling tickets.