The railway department has informed that the advance booking period for travel-related tickets has been reduced from 120 days to a shorter timeframe. However, the advance booking period for foreign tourists remains the same as before
Indian Railways has made changes to its reservation timeline. Previously, passengers could book train tickets up to 120 days in advance, but this period has now been reduced to 60 days. The new timeline will take effect from November 1, 2024. According to the railway department, the existing advance reservation period (ARP) will be shortened from 120 days to 60 days (excluding the travel date) starting November 1.
The railway has also clarified that tickets booked by October 31 will remain valid. Passengers who booked tickets 120 days in advance can cancel them, as bookings made beyond the new 60-day limit will be eligible for cancellation. However, there will be no changes for certain express trains, such as the Taj Express and Gomti Express, where a shorter advance reservation period is already in place.
There will also be no modifications to the 365-day booking period for foreign tourists. It is believed that this step by the railways will benefit passengers by increasing the availability of current tickets and could help curb ticket mafia activities. However, the railway department has not yet disclosed the primary reasons behind this decision.
