New Train Rules: From Tatkal tickets to luggage—new railway rules effective today, August 1st

Indian Railways Counter Ticket Booking: Starting today, the Railways has introduced two new changes for passengers. Facilities for a token system for Tatkal tickets and online booking for extra luggage are now available.

Indian Railways Counter Ticket Booking: The beginning of every month brings certain changes. Consequently, train travelers should be aware of railway-related rules. Starting today, August 1st, the West Central Railway is implementing a new token system for Tatkal ticket booking at its reservation counters. Additionally, the Railways has launched an online booking facility for extra luggage. If you purchase Tatkal tickets from railway counters or need information regarding luggage, this news is relevant to you.

Railway rules changed starting today.

The Railways has decided to implement a new token system at reservation counters starting today. The objective behind this decision is to spare passengers visiting the counters from overcrowding and long queues. With the new system in place, tickets will be more easily accessible to passengers.

Passengers categorized into different groups.

The Railways has now categorized passengers into different groups. Individuals booking tickets for themselves and their family members will be placed in 'Category A', while other passengers will fall into a separate category. Tickets for Category A passengers will be processed first as soon as the counters open. Please note that the token issued to a specific passenger can only be used by that same person. Furthermore, presenting an Aadhaar card or an identity proof during ticket booking is mandatory; do not forget to carry it with you.

Know the token issuance timings.

Under the new rules, tokens for Tatkal Sleeper and Non-AC tickets will be issued between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM. Only 15 tokens will be issued for non-AC and Sleeper class Tatkal tickets.
Meanwhile, passengers can obtain tokens for AC Tatkal tickets between 8:30 AM and 9:00 AM; however, only 10 tokens will be issued for AC Tatkal tickets.

Book luggage online now

The Railways has introduced an online booking facility for extra luggage. With this new feature, passengers will no longer need to stand in queues at the station to book extra luggage.

Free luggage allowance on trains

70 kg for First AC
50 kg for Second AC
40 kg for Sleeper and Third AC
35 kg for General class

What to do if you have excess luggage

If your luggage exceeds these limits, you must book it online. Previously, passengers had to visit the railway station's parcel office to book excess luggage separately before the train's departure—a process that consumed both time and effort. Now, however, the Railways has introduced online luggage booking for passenger convenience. A fee of 1.5 times the standard luggage charge applies. Please note that the online booking facility is currently available only to passengers holding confirmed tickets.