Archive · 29 Jul 2026
New Railway Rule for Tatkal Bookings from August 1
The Indian Railways has introduced a new rule for booking Tatkal tickets starting from August 1.
Under this rule, passengers will first receive tokens and then be called up in an orderly manner to book their tickets.
Tokens for AC classes will be distributed from 8:30 am to 9:00 am, and for non-AC classes from 9:30 am to 10:00 am.
Each counter will issue a limited number of tokens.
Passengers must carry a valid photo identity card, and tokens are non-transferable.
The new system aims to reduce long queues, prevent disorder, and improve the overall passenger experience.
However, passengers may need to reach the station within the new token distribution timings, and those in Category B may face longer waiting times.
New rule for Tatkal ticket booking effective from August 1.
Passengers to receive tokens before booking tickets.
Token distribution timings: AC 8:30 am - 9:00 am, Non-AC 9:30 am - 10:00 am.
Limited tokens per counter: 10 for AC, 15 for non-AC.
Valid photo identity card mandatory for token issuance.
- Who
- Passengers and Railway Authorities
- What
- New rule for Tatkal ticket booking
- When
- Effective from August 1
- Where
- West Central Railway’s Tatkal counters
- Why
- To reduce chaos, prevent touts, and improve passenger experience
Passengers
Railway Authorities
Token Distribution Timings
Passengers
Passengers may find it challenging to reach the reservation center within the new token distribution timings.
Railway Authorities
Railway authorities believe the new system will reduce chaos and improve the booking process.
Priority Categories
Passengers
Passengers in Category B may face longer waiting times as Category A is prioritized.
Railway Authorities
Railway authorities aim to ensure fair distribution and reduce touts and black marketing.
- Token Distribution Timings
- AC: 8:30 am - 9:00 am, Non-AC: 9:30 am - 10:00 am
- Token Limits
- AC: 10 tokens per counter, Non-AC: 15 tokens per counter
- Booking Window
- AC: 10:00 am, Non-AC: 11:00 am, one day before journey
- Priority Categories
- Category A: Self or family members, Category B: All others
- ID Requirement
- Aadhaar or valid photo identity card mandatory
- Token Transferability
- Non-transferable, ticket issued only to token holder
