There are times when you suddenly need to travel, but getting a confirmed train ticket at the last moment feels impossible. In such situations, Indian Railways’ Current Ticket Booking service can be a lifesaver. Let’s understand how you can secure a confirmed train ticket even just before departure.
Why Getting a Confirmed Ticket is Tough
Train travel is the backbone of transportation in India, with millions of passengers commuting daily. However, securing a confirmed ticket has become increasingly difficult due to heavy demand, especially during festivals and peak seasons. Often, people have to book tickets months in advance to ensure a seat.
For last-minute travelers, Tatkal tickets are the go-to option. However, even Tatkal booking is a challenge, as tickets sell out within minutes, and many are booked by travel agents using special software. To make things harder, Tatkal tickets are also more expensive than regular tickets. This leaves many passengers stranded without an option unless they know about Current Ticket Booking.
What is Current Ticket Booking?
Many passengers don’t know that Indian Railways allows ticket booking even a few hours before a train departs. If there are vacant seats left, these are released under the Current Ticket Booking system. Unlike Tatkal, these tickets are guaranteed to be confirmed, meaning you won’t have to worry about being on a waitlist.
This system not only helps passengers who need to travel urgently but also ensures that no seats go unoccupied.
How to Book a Current Ticket?
There are two simple ways to book a current ticket. You can either book it online through the IRCTC website or visit the railway station’s ticket counter. Availability can be checked three to four hours before departure, and in some cases, you can even book a ticket just 5 to 10 minutes before the train leaves.
Final Thoughts
Booking a train ticket at the last minute may seem stressful, but knowing about Current Ticket Booking can make a big difference. If you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to travel suddenly, don’t worry just check for current ticket availability and secure your seat!