If the train ticket becomes RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation), then it is natural to worry. RAC means that you have not got the entire berth, but two passengers will have to share the same seat. But there are some ways in Indian Railways, by which you can get a full seat even after the chart is prepared. Let’s find out how you can confirm your RAC seat during the journey.
Secure a confirmed seat with the assistance of the TTE
If your ticket is RAC even after the chart is prepared, then there is no need to panic. The biggest help to you will be from the TTE (Traveling Ticket Examiner). After the journey starts, you should directly meet the TTE present in the train. TTE has a list of all the berths that are left vacant or on which no passenger has come. If a passenger has cancelled his journey or has not come on the train, then the TTE can allot his vacant berth to you.
IRCTC’s ‘Chart/Vacancy’ facility
IRCTC has a special feature on its official website or app, named ‘Chart/Vacancy’. This facility can prove to be a boon for RAC passengers.
How it works
Through this feature, you can see how many seats are vacant in which coach even after the train starts.
What to see?
You just have to enter your train number and date of travel. After this, the system will tell you the number of vacant berths in each coach, such as sleeper, AC-3 tier, or AC-2 tier.
How to take advantage
If you see any vacant seat in this feature, then you should immediately contact the TTE and tell him about this vacant seat. The TTE will confirm the available information and can allot that seat to you. This method helps in converting your RAC ticket into a confirmed ticket.
An important rule related to RAC
There is another important rule for passengers with RAC tickets. As per railway rules, the TTE has to locate all the passengers who have not taken their seats within the first hour of the train’s departure. If a passenger does not turn up, the TTE can declare their seat vacant and give it to RAC passengers. Therefore, it is most beneficial to get in touch with the TTE in the first hour of your journey.