Indian Railways reduces ticket reservation time to 60 days from November 1

All reservations made up to October 31 under the 120-day Advance Reservation Period (ARP) will remain valid.

In Short

• Reservation period for train tickets cut to 60 days from November 1, 2024
• Bookings made before October 31 remain unaffected by new policy
• Popular trains with shorter booking windows not impacted

The Railway Board has announced a significant reduction in the reservation period (ARP) for train tickets, from the current 120 days to 60 days. Effective November 1, 2024, this change will limit train bookings to just 60 days before the journey date (excluding the date of travel). Bookings made before October 31, 2024, under the 120-day ARP, will not be affected.

CANCELLATION PERMITTED BEYOND 60 DAYS

Despite the shorter booking window, passengers who have made reservations beyond the 60 days will still be able to cancel their tickets if necessary. The Railway Board's circular, dated October 16, 2024, did not provide a specific reason for the change but emphasised its role in improving the booking process.

Some trains, including popular daytime express services like the Taj Express and Gomti Express, already have shorter booking windows. These will remain unaffected by the new ARP policy. The 365-day ARP for foreign tourists will also stay in effect, ensuring that long-term travel plans for international tourists are not disrupted.

POLICY SHIFT

The move to reduce the ARP marks a departure from the policy enacted on March 25, 2015, when the reservation window was extended from 60 to 120 days. The Railway Board is now returning to the 60-day booking period to offer a more streamlined and manageable system for passengers.

The reasoning behind the change has not been detailed, but it may address operational concerns, minimise speculative bookings, and provide more flexibility in the reservation system. Passengers are encouraged to stay updated on these changes and adjust their travel plans accordingly to comply with the new 60-day booking window starting November 1, 2024.