IRCTC introduces no-cancellation fee tickets: Change your train date without paying penalty |
The Indian Railways is preparing to roll out a passenger-friendly change that could transform the way people travel across the country. Soon, passengers will be able to reschedule their train journeys without paying any cancellation charges. The new initiative, expected to be implemented through the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) portal, will allow travellers to modify their travel date on a confirmed ticket and pay only the difference in fare, if applicable, as per a report by Times Now. The move is being described as a major step toward making train travel more flexible, convenient, and affordable, particularly for those who often face sudden changes in their travel plans. One of the biggest concerns among passengers has been the loss of money when a trip is canceled or a train is missed. The new system aims to address this very issue.At present, there is no provision to get a refund if a passenger misses their train. If you fail to board the train on time, even for genuine reasons such as a delayed flight, bad weather, or an emergency, the fare is forfeited. Moreover, even when a passenger cancels a confirmed ticket before departure, a cancellation fee is deducted depending on the class and the time of cancellation. This fee can range anywhere between 25 to 50 percent of the ticket cost, and in some cases, there is no refund at all.
The upcoming feature promises to change this scenario entirely. Instead of canceling the ticket and paying a penalty, passengers will have the option to modify their journey date. The new system will enable travellers to log in to the IRCTC website or app, select their booked ticket, and choose a different travel date or train, as long as seats are available. The only payment required will be the difference in fare.For Indian travellers, especially those who depend on trains for long-distance or last-minute travel, this is a significant improvement. Missing a train currently results in complete loss of the fare, and for those who cancel due to a change in plans, a portion of the ticket price is deducted as cancellation fee. For instance, if a confirmed ticket is canceled within 24 hours of departure, a quarter of the fare is forfeited. If canceled less than four hours before the scheduled departure, the passenger receives no refund at all.Globally, flexible ticketing options have long been available in many countries. In Japan, the Japan Rail Pass allows travellers to board most trains at any time without the need for rescheduling or paying penalties. Across Europe, flexible fares are common. They allow passengers to make changes or even request refunds before a certain deadline. In the United Kingdom, the “Anytime” ticket lets passengers board any train on the chosen route.By introducing a similar feature, Indian Railways is taking a step toward matching international standards. The flexibility will especially help the millions of passengers who depend on Indian Railways for daily commutes, intercity travel, and tourism across the country’s vast rail network..While the official rollout date has not been announced, reports suggest that the no-cancellation fee option could be introduced early next year. This initiative comes as part of a broader modernisation effort under Indian Railways.
Passenger-friendly travel initiatives in India
In essence, the no-cancellation fee feature signals a major shift in how Indian Railways views passenger experience. Instead of penalising travellers for last-minute disruptions, it now offers them a practical alternative – reschedule instead of cancel.Once the system is in place, passengers will be able to change their plans without worrying about financial loss.
