In addition to ordinary railway ticket reservation, there is an emergency reservation scheme called “TATKAL”.
Reservation for certain trains for which Tatkal reservation is admissible can be done 5 days before the date of journey. Of course, an additional fee has to be paid for this emergency reservation and such Tatkal tickets cannot be changed or cancelled.
All these tatkal train tickets come with a premium of Rs 50 to Rs 200 added to the actual fare of the journey depending on the class. For Train reservation of tatkal tickets you need to produce your photo identity at the reservation counter and even inside the train to prevent bogus booking and black market sale of hot tickets. Tatkal tickets cannot be cancelled or refunded.
Indian Railways reservation for passengers who wish to go on sight seeing or pilgrimage trips can book their tickets in advance. Such reservations are possible for all classes provided the journey begins and ends at the same station. Break journeys are admissible provided they are not more than eight. The journey should be completed within the validity period mentioned in the ticket.
Indian Railways also allow special reservation for people traveling in groups. Now Indian Railways reservations can be made online. Not only is online reservation possible, but checking whether a waitlisted ticket is confirmed, checking whether there is a change in fare or finding out the latest train timings are possible.
There are different reservation rules for children and senior citizens. Children below 5 years are permitted to travel for free and children between the age group of 5-12 years are charged half the fare for the journey. Since 2001 30% deduction is given on the actual fare of the ticket to senior citizens. For handicapped people a special quota of two berths are earmarked in the sleeper class of almost all the trains. Some trains also have reserved accommodation exclusively for ladies but boys below 12 years can travel in these reserved coaches. Indian Railways also give concession to students. Top Family Destinations
