Train Tips- If you are going to travel by train, then keep these rules in mind, otherwise you may get 2 years of jail

Friends, as we have told you through our earlier article that Indian Railways is one of the largest railway networks in the world, so its rules are also very special, every day, lakhs of people depend on Indian Railways to travel from one state to another. Many people travel with confirmed reservations, but a large number of passengers often travel with RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) or waiting list tickets in the hope of getting a seat at the last moment. But the rules have changed, now traveling without confirmation can lead to punishment, know full details

What's new in the rule?

From July 1, 2025, the Railways has strictly implemented an old rule, according to which:

No passenger will be allowed to travel in a reserved coach with a waiting list ticket.

If caught travelling with a waiting ticket, the passenger will be fined or deboarded from the running train.

This applies to all reserved coaches including sleeper, AC 3-tier and AC 2-tier.

What are window tickets?

Window tickets are those that are bought from official railway booking counters before travel.

Earlier, passengers with waiting or RAC window tickets were allowed to board and travel in sleeper or AC coaches.

Now, if such tickets do not get confirmed till the final charting time, travelling on them is prohibited.

There were already restrictions on online tickets

Online waiting list tickets were already automatically cancelled if not confirmed before travel.

Under the new rules, this strictness applies to window (counter) tickets as well.

What happens if caught?

If a ticket examiner (TT) finds you travelling on a waiting ticket:

A fine of ₹440 will be imposed.

You may be deboarded mid-way through the journey.

Alternatively, the TT reserves the right to shift you to the general compartment if there is space.

Why this rule now?

According to railway officials, this is not a new rule - it dates back to British-era railway rules. But until now, it was not strictly enforced on window tickets.

What should passengers do?

Always check your ticket status before boarding.

If your ticket is waitlisted, cancel it to avoid penalty or inconvenience.

Consider booking alternate transport or checking confirmed train seats in other trains/routes.

Passengers are advised to stay updated with these new rules and plan accordingly to ensure a hassle-free journey.