Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Dec 29: Indian Railways permits passengers to book train tickets up to 30 minutes before a train’s departure under the “Current Booking” facility, without levying any additional charges.

The facility is aimed at passengers who require last-minute travel, miss their trains, or are unable to secure reservations in advance. Trains remain the preferred mode of long-distance travel in India due to affordability, safety and comfort, but travellers often face difficulties in obtaining confirmed tickets during peak and festive seasons. The facility offers significant relief to travellers with urgent or unplanned journeys.

Current booking opens four hours prior to a train’s scheduled departure and remains available until the final reservation chart is prepared. The final chart is generally generated 30 minutes before departure, allowing bookings to be made until that time, subject to seat availability.

Tickets under this quota can be booked online through the official IRCTC website or mobile application, or at current reservation counters at railway stations.

During the booking process, passengers can check seat status. If the status displays “Current Available”, tickets can be booked under the quota. Unlike Tatkal reservations, no additional charges are applicable, and passengers are required to pay only the regular fare. The facility is available for all classes, including Sleeper and AC.

The current booking system is also used to accommodate passengers whose waitlisted tickets remain unconfirmed and helps Indian Railways utilise vacant seats more efficiently.

The current booking system offers added convenience to travellers, it also enables Indian Railways to optimise the utilisation of vacant seats. Considering the challenges faced by passengers in the past, the facility stands out as a practical and passenger-friendly reform introduced by Indian Railways.