Indian Railways has revised its advance train ticket booking rules, reducing the reservation window from 120 days to 60 days. This change will take effect from November 1, 2024, allowing passengers to book IRCTC train tickets only 60 days in advance of the scheduled departure.
Key Highlights of the New Rule:
Advance Booking Period Reduced: The booking window has been shortened to 60 days from the current 120 days.
Effective Date: The new rule will come into effect on November 1, 2024.
Impact on Existing Reservations: The rule will not affect tickets that have already been booked.
Reason for Change: The update aims to prevent issues faced by passengers when trains are canceled, allowing more flexible travel plans.
Indian Railways is also integrating artificial intelligence (AI) to boost operational efficiency. The AI model has enhanced seat allocation, resulting in a 30% increase in confirmed ticket rates. This new system predicts seat availability after the reservation chart is generated, enabling more effective seat allocation for passengers on the waiting list.
These changes represent a significant shift in Indian Railways’ strategy regarding ticket bookings and technological advancements within the reservation system.