The Ministry of Railways has decided to prepare reservation charts for long-distance trains eight hours in advance, instead of the current four hours, to help passengers travelling from remote locations plan their journeys better.
The decision was taken during a recent review meeting chaired by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, a statement issued by the ministry said. Under Vaishnaw’s guidance, officials are working to prepare the reservation chart eight hours before the train’s departure instead of the current four hours, it said.
For trains departing before 2
pm, the charts will be prepared the previous night at 9 pm, the statement said, adding that the minister has directed the change to be implemented in a phased manner to ensure no disruptions.
This move will reduce uncertainties for passengers with waitlist tickets, it said, adding that the first update on waitlist status will be shared in advance. “It will benefit passengers travelling from remote locations or suburbs of major cities for catching long-distance trains. It will also provide more time to make alternative arrangements in case the wait list is not confirmed,” the ministry said.