In a recent wave of misinformation, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has issued a clarification regarding the booking timings for Tatkal and Premium Tatkal tickets. Amid circulating rumors that these timings were set to change, IRCTC has confirmed that there will be no alterations to the existing booking schedule for both AC and non-AC classes.
On April 16, 2025, the IRCTC took to its official social media channels to address the confusion sparked by various posts on platforms like Facebook. These posts claimed that starting April 15, the booking times for AC class tickets would commence at 11:00 AM and for Sleeper Class tickets at 12:00 PM. Such claims suggested a significant shift aimed at enhancing transparency within the Tatkal ticket system, but IRCTC firmly stated that no such changes were in consideration.
"No such change in timings is presently under consideration in the Tatkal or Premium Tatkal booking timings for AC or Non-AC classes," the IRCTC announced in a post shared on April 11, 2025. The organization emphasized that the permitted booking timings for agents also remain unchanged, countering the misinformation that had begun to circulate widely.
The current booking schedule for Tatkal tickets is as follows: for AC classes, booking opens at 10:00 AM one day prior to the journey date, while for Sleeper Class tickets, booking begins at 11:00 AM. For instance, if a train is scheduled to depart on April 15, Tatkal booking will be available on April 14 at 10:00 AM for AC classes and at 11:00 AM for Sleeper Class.
Premium Tatkal tickets, which serve as an alternative when Tatkal tickets are unavailable, also follow the same booking times. However, these tickets are generally more expensive due to the dynamic pricing model that adjusts fares based on demand and availability.
IRCTC's clarification comes as welcome news for many passengers who rely on the Tatkal system for last-minute travel arrangements. The Tatkal scheme allows for quick bookings, albeit at a higher cost, and is available for all classes except First AC. Passengers can reserve up to four tickets per PNR, with additional charges applied for the Tatkal service.
The charges for Tatkal tickets are structured as follows: for second class, the charge is 10% of the base fare, while for all other classes, it is 30%. It's important to note that confirmed Tatkal tickets are non-refundable, although some exceptions apply for cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances.
In light of these developments, passengers are encouraged to utilize official sources such as the IRCTC website or mobile app for accurate and up-to-date information regarding train travel and ticketing. The IRCTC has reiterated the importance of relying on verified channels to avoid falling victim to false information.
As the Indian Railways continues to serve as a vital link for millions of travelers across the country, clarity in communication regarding ticketing procedures is essential. The recent confusion underscores the need for vigilance against misinformation in the digital age, especially when it pertains to crucial services like train travel.
In conclusion, the IRCTC has effectively quashed the rumors regarding changes to the Tatkal ticket booking process. Passengers can continue to book their tickets as per the established timings without any concern for sudden changes, ensuring a smoother travel experience.
