What is the refund if you miss a train despite arriving on time? Many times, despite arriving at the railway station on time, passengers miss their train due to a platform change or an early departure. Most people, considering it their fate, consider their tickets useless and assume they will not get a refund. However, Indian Railways’ rules state the exact opposite. If the fault lies with the railways, passengers are eligible for a full refund. It is important to understand the correct procedure and file a timely complaint.
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What do the rules say if you arrive at the station on time but miss a train?
According to Indian Railways guidelines, if a train is scheduled to depart at 5 am and a passenger is present on the platform at 4:55 am, it is considered on time. Furthermore, if a train departs before its scheduled departure time or is suddenly diverted from a different platform without prior notice, it is considered a railway error. In such situations, passengers are entitled to compensation or a full refund of their ticket.
When is compensation or a full refund given?
There are several situations where the railway is held responsible and passengers are given a refund. If a train leaves the platform before the scheduled time, even though the passenger has already reached the station, a refund can be granted. Furthermore, passengers are also eligible for a refund if they do not receive a train reschedule notification via SMS or email during online ticket booking.
Similarly, if a train is suddenly shifted to another platform without any announcement or notification, and the passenger misses the train due to a lack of information, a refund or compensation is also available. Passengers can lodge a complaint in such cases on the railmadad.indianrailways.gov.in website or the 139 helpline.
The correct procedure for a refund after a train is missed
When a train is missed due to a platform change or a delay in receiving information, many passengers tear their tickets out of anger or frustration. This is a common mistake. In such cases, the Railways provides the facility of TDR (Ticket Deposit Receipt). Through this, passengers can indicate that they did not travel and want a refund.
Passengers who booked tickets online can file a TDR by visiting the My Booking section of the IRCTC app or website. For tickets purchased over the counter, passengers can visit the nearest reservation office and submit the TDR form. The Railways typically issues refunds in such cases within 7 to 21 days. Sometimes, this process is completed in three to four days.