New Delhi: The Indian Railways is set to enforce stricter ticket regulations beginning May 1, prohibiting waitlisted passengers from travelling in Sleeper and Air-Conditioned (AC) coaches. Passengers with unconfirmed tickets will now be permitted to travel only in General class compartments, officials said.
The decision aims to reduce inconvenience faced by confirmed ticket holders due to overcrowding and unauthorized occupation of reserved berths. According to Captain Shashi Kiran, Chief Public Relations Officer of North Western Railway, the revised guidelines are intended to safeguard the comfort and rights of confirmed passengers.
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Under the new policy:
– Passengers with waitlisted tickets in Sleeper class found occupying berths may be fined up to Rs 250, in addition to being charged the full Sleeper fare.
– Those found in 3AC or 2AC coaches with waitlisted tickets could be fined up to Rs 440 and moved to General compartments.
– TTEs (Travelling Ticket Examiners) will also have the authority to deboard such passengers at the next station.
– Individuals travelling without a valid ticket face a penalty of up to Rs 1,000 and may be subjected to imprisonment of up to six months.
Officials explained that confirmed passengers have often complained about waitlisted travelers attempting to occupy reserved berths, especially during peak seasons. The Railways also pointed out that an increase in unconfirmed travelers in reserved coaches hampers not only passenger comfort but also the overall train operation efficiency.
Railway authorities have urged passengers to ensure they hold a confirmed ticket before boarding Sleeper or AC coaches from May 1 onwards to avoid penalties or removal from the train.