Train ticket cancellation refund: No refund for tickets cancelled less than 8 hours before train scheduled departure, check new rules
Train Ticket Cancellation Refund: Indian Railways has implemented significant changes to the rules regarding the cancellation of confirmed tickets.
Under the new regulations, the refund amount and applicable penalties will now depend on how far in advance of the train's departure the passenger cancels the ticket. The objective of this move is to simplify the process and prevent the misuse of the system.
According to the new rules, if a passenger cancels a ticket 72 hours or more before the train's scheduled departure, only a fixed cancellation charge will be deducted.
For cancellations made between 72 and 24 hours prior to departure, 25% of the fare will be deducted. If a ticket is cancelled between 24 and 8 hours before departure, up to 50% of the amount will be deducted. No refund will be granted for tickets cancelled less than 8 hours before the scheduled departure time.
New Facility for Changing Boarding Points
Providing relief to passengers, the Railways has also modified the rules regarding the changing of boarding stations. Passengers can now change their boarding point up to 30 minutes before the train's scheduled departure time. This facility will be particularly beneficial for passengers residing in large cities that have multiple railway stations.
What Were the Previous Rules?
Previously, the facility to change one's boarding station was available only until the reservation chart was prepared. With the implementation of the new rules, passengers can now avail themselves of this facility right up until the last moment, thereby making their journey more convenient.
Curbing the Activities of Ticket Brokers
According to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, these changes have also been introduced to curb the activities of ticket brokers. Previously, many brokers would book a large number of tickets and subsequently cancel them to profit from the refunds. The new rules are expected to put an end to such practices.
How Will Passengers Benefit?
These changes will offer passengers greater flexibility and enhance transparency within the ticket booking system. However, those who cancel their tickets at a late stage may now incur higher financial losses compared to the previous regulations.