Indian Railways Allows Vande Bharat Seat Booking Until 15 Minutes Before Departure
Indian Railways has introduced a new facility that allows passengers to book vacant seats on Vande Bharat Express and other reserved trains up to 15 minutes before departure. Earlier, bookings would close once the reservation chart was prepared, often leaving vacant seats unused. The new system aims to improve seat occupancy while offering greater flexibility to passengers with urgent travel needs.
Under the revised process, any seats that remain vacant after the reservation chart is finalized will continue to be available for booking until 15 minutes before the train leaves the station. Passengers can check availability and book tickets through the official IRCTC website, the IRCTC Rail Connect mobile app, or authorised Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters. Seat availability will depend on vacancies after chart preparation.
The move is expected to benefit last-minute travellers and those who were unable to secure confirmed tickets during the regular reservation period. Indian Railways has advised passengers to verify seat availability before heading to the station, arrive well ahead of departure time, carry a valid identity proof, and book tickets only through official channels.
Pic courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright
