Rail Ticket Refund: Millions of passengers traveling with Indian Railways may see a major change in ticket rules in the coming days. A key parliamentary committee has suggested that if a passenger with an RAC ticket does not get a full berth, the full fare charged should not be considered justified. The committee has asked the Ministry of Railways to create a system that allows such passengers to receive a partial refund of their fare. This recommendation could pave the way for changes in the traditional railway fare system.

What the PAC Report Said

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) raised this issue in its report, “Timeliness of Train Operations and Travel Time in Indian Railways.” The report was tabled in Parliament on February 4th. The committee stated that if a passenger remains on RAC status even after the chart is prepared and does not get a full berth, charging the full fare is not justified. The committee suggested that the Ministry of Railways develop a mechanism for providing partial refunds.

Current Rules

Currently, the railways charge passengers the full fare when booking RAC tickets. In many cases, passengers have to share a berth with another RAC ticket holder during the journey. Despite this, both passengers are charged the full fare. This is why the committee has called it contrary to the principle of payment proportionate to the service received.

IRCTC Refund Rules

According to current IRCTC rules, if an RAC e-ticket is not canceled before the train’s departure or a TDR (Ticket Deposit Receipt) is not filed within the stipulated time, no refund is given. The committee says that even if the passenger has traveled but did not receive the full facility, a partial refund should be considered.

Strictness on RAC Passengers in 13 Trains

The report also revealed that RAC passengers are not being allowed to board some new premium trains. Only passengers with confirmed tickets can travel on these trains. This move is considered part of the railways’ efforts to improve the travel experience.

What Could Happen Next

The final decision now rests with the Ministry of Railways. The ministry will have to decide on what basis the refunds will be calculated and how they will be transferred digitally to passengers’ accounts. If this recommendation is implemented, a major change in the railway ticketing system is possible, and passengers could receive a more equitable service.

About the Author

Rohit P

My name is Rohit Pal, and I have been working in the field of journalism for the past five years. During this time, I have written on a variety of topics, including business, automobiles, technology, and politics. I have worked with several major organizations and am currently working with Timesbull.

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