Indian Railways to allow date change in booked journeys: Reports

Indian Railways will now allow travellers to change the date of their journey without paying any cancellation or modification charges for the first time ever, stated the reports.

So far, passengers who needed to reschedule their travel had to cancel their existing ticket and book a new one, often losing a portion of the fare depending on the timing of cancellation. The new rule aims to make the process simpler and more affordable.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reportedly said the current system was unfair and not in the interest of passengers, adding that directives have been issued to implement the revised policy soon.

However, Vaishnaw clarified that rescheduling will be subject to seat availability. If the fare for the new travel date is higher, passengers will need to pay the difference in price.

Under the existing structure, cancelling a confirmed ticket 48 to 12 hours before departure incurs a 25% deduction, which increases further for cancellations made within 12 to 4 hours of travel to 50%. Once the reservation chart is finalised, no refund is typically issued.