Train Ticket Cancellation: Planning a trip during the festive season? Or suddenly need to cancel your train journey for an emergency? Before you cancel your confirmed train ticket, understand the Indian Railways’ ticket cancellation rules and charges. According to IRCTC rules, a specific amount is deducted as a charge for cancelling a train ticket. This charge depends on how far in advance you cancel the ticket. Let’s find out the details.
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Ticket Cancellation Timeline and Charges
Time is a crucial factor in train ticket cancellation. The charges vary for cancelling tickets at different times.
- More than 48 hours before train departure:
- If you cancel your confirmed ticket more than 48 hours before the train’s departure, the charges are different for various classes.
- AC First Class/Executive Class: ₹240
- AC Two-Tier: ₹200
- AC Three-Tier/AC Chair Car/AC Three Economy: ₹180
- Sleeper Class: ₹120
- Second Class (Chair Car): ₹60
- Between 48 hours and 12 hours before train departure:
- If you cancel the ticket within this period, 25% of the base fare will be deducted as a charge. However, the minimum charge (as listed for cancellations before 48 hours) will also apply. Whichever amount is higher (the 25% fare or the flat minimum charge) will be deducted.
- Between 12 hours and 4 hours before train departure:
- If the ticket is cancelled between 12 hours and 4 hours before departure, or before the chart is prepared, 50% of the ticket fare will be deducted as a charge.
Cancellation After Chart Preparation
Many people ask if a ticket can be cancelled after the chart is prepared. According to IRCTC rules, an e-ticket cannot be cancelled online after the chart is prepared. In that case, you must file a TDR (Ticket Deposit Receipt). You can apply for a refund by filing a TDR.
In Case of Partially Confirmed Tickets
If your ticket includes multiple passengers and some are confirmed while others remain on the waiting list, the waitlisted passengers cannot travel. In this scenario, you must also file a TDR to apply for a refund for those passengers. Therefore, keep these rules in mind the next time you cancel a train ticket to minimize your financial loss.
