Indian Railways: Rules about train ticket cancellations and refunds
What's the story
Not all plans are meant to be.
That's exactly why the Indian Railways offers the option of canceling train tickets to its passengers.
According to the prevailing railway rules, refunds are issued (or not) depending on individual cases and circumstances.
Here are general rules, you should know, about train tickets cancellations and refunds.
Rules (1)
Cancellation charges for different train classes
When a passenger cancels a confirmed train ticket more than 48 hours prior to the scheduled departure of the train, flat cancellation charges for different train classes are levied by the Railways.
The charges for AC first class/executive is Rs. 240; Rs. 200 for AC 2-tier, Rs. 180 for AC 3-tier/AC Chair Car, Rs. 120 for Sleeper class, and Rs. 60 for Second class.
Rules (2)
Cancellation charges, based on time of cancellation
In case a confirmed ticket is canceled within 48 hours but at least 12 hours before the scheduled departure of the train, a cancellation charge of 25% of the fare is levied.
Furthermore, for tickets canceled at the boarding station, within 4 hours prior to the scheduled train departure, cancellation charge is 50% of the fare.
Rules (3)
Rules about partially confirmed tickets, unused RAC/WL tickets, train-cancellation
Partially confirmed tickets can be canceled upto half-an-hour prior to the scheduled train departure, from ticket counters.
That apart, refund on cancellation of unused RAC/WL tickets is granted upto half-an-hour before the scheduled departure of the train, subject to deduction of certain charges.
Furthermore, in case of cancellation of trains, automatic refund is granted (if booked online). No TDR-filing is required.
Rules (4)
Rules about cancellation of Tatkal tickets
As far as confirmed Tatkal tickets are concerned, the IRCTC grants no refund of fare, in case of their cancellation.
On the other hand, for contingent cancellation and wait-listed Tatkal tickets, charges as per existing railway rules are deducted from the refund amount.
Notably, partial cancellation of Tatkal e-tickets is allowed by IRCTC.
Information
Refunds in case of cancelled trains
In case, the Passenger Reservation System (PRS) marks train status as "CANCELLED" (due to reasons such as breaches, floods, accidents, etc.), the full amount of the fare will be refunded if the ticket is canceled within three days of the scheduled departure of the train.
Do you know?
How to check refund status of canceled train tickets
To check the refund status of your canceled train ticket- first off, log on to Indian Rail Refunds website. Then, click on 'Check Refund status' link. Finally enter your PNR details, and submit. Subsequently, your ticket's refund status will flash on the screen.