Passengers booking Tatkal train tickets at West Central Railway (WCR) reservation counters will have to follow a new token distribution system from August 1.
The updated process aims to reduce long queues, avoid overcrowding at reservation centres and make Tatkal bookings faster and more convenient.
The new system also means passengers won’t have to visit booking counters multiple times before getting a ticket.
Here’s everything you need to know.
New Token Timings for AC and Sleeper Tatkal Tickets
Under the revised system, Tatkal tokens will be distributed earlier than before.
AC Tatkal tokens: 8:30 AM to 9:00 AM
Non-AC (Sleeper) Tatkal tokens: 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM
Earlier, AC tokens were issued between 9:00 AM and 9:25 AM, while Sleeper class tokens were distributed from 9:30 AM to 9:55 AM.
The revised timings are expected to make the booking process smoother and reduce waiting time at reservation counters.
Limited Tokens to Be Issued Initially
Each reservation counter will initially issue:
10 tokens for AC Tatkal bookings
15 tokens for Non-AC Tatkal bookings
However, railway authorities may increase or decrease the number of tokens depending on passenger demand at a particular station.
If Tatkal seats remain available after all token holders complete their bookings, the remaining seats will be offered to other passengers on a first-come, first-served basis.
New Priority System for Passengers
West Central Railway has also introduced two priority categories for issuing Tatkal tokens.
Category A includes passengers booking tickets for themselves or their immediate family members.
These passengers will be given priority while distributing tokens.
Category B includes all other passengers. They will receive tokens only after all eligible Category A applicants have been served.
Carry These Documents Before Visiting the Counter
Passengers applying under Category A must carry a valid photo ID along with documents proving their relationship with the family member for whom the ticket is being booked.
Those applying under Category B must carry Aadhaar or any other valid photo identity card accepted by Indian Railways.
Railway authorities have also made it clear that Tatkal tokens cannot be transferred.
The ticket will be issued only to the person whose name appears on the token.
Tatkal Booking Time Remains the Same
While the token distribution process has changed, the actual Tatkal booking schedule remains unchanged.
AC Tatkal booking opens at 10:00 AM
Non-AC (Sleeper) Tatkal booking opens at 11:00 AM
Both bookings continue to open one day before the journey date.
What This Means for Passengers
The new Tatkal token system is designed to make bookings more organised and reduce crowding at reservation centres.
Passengers planning to book Tatkal tickets should reach the reservation counter on time with the required identity documents to avoid delays and ensure a hassle-free booking experience.
