In a major update to the ticket booking and reservation system, Indian Railways has revised its train chart preparation schedule, bringing it 8 hours before train departure instead of the earlier system. This change is aimed at enhancing convenience for passengers, improving transparency in seat availability, and making real-time travel planning easier.
What Is Train Charting?
For those unfamiliar, “chart preparation” refers to the final list generated by the Indian Railways that includes names of confirmed passengers, berth/seat numbers, and coach allocation. This list is printed and displayed at railway stations and is also updated on the IRCTC platform for passengers to check their final booking status — especially for waitlisted and RAC tickets.
Previously, Indian Railways followed a two-chart system:
- First chart: Prepared 4 hours before train departure (for long-distance trains).
- Second chart: Prepared 30 minutes to 1 hour before the scheduled departure time to accommodate last-minute bookings and cancellations.
Now, under the new system, the first and final chart will be prepared 8 hours in advance, providing better clarity for travelers much earlier than before.
Why the Change?
According to railway officials, the earlier charting times often left passengers—especially those with RAC or waitlisted tickets—in uncertainty until just before the train’s departure. This caused inconvenience for families and long-distance travelers who needed time to plan their boarding.
Key reasons for the change include:
- Advanced planning for travelers: Passengers can now know their seat status much earlier, reducing last-minute anxiety.
- Better utilization of vacant berths: Railways can reallocate unoccupied seats more efficiently with a longer window between charting and departure.
- Improved passenger experience: With better predictability in seat allocation, travelers can make alternate arrangements in time if their tickets don’t confirm.
Impact on Waitlisted and RAC Tickets
One of the major concerns among train passengers has always been regarding confirmation of waitlisted tickets. Under the new system:
- Tickets will be confirmed or remain on the waitlist based on cancellations up to 8 hours before the journey.
- After chart preparation, any unutilized RAC or confirmed seats can be booked via the PRS counters or IRCTC as current bookings, depending on seat availability.
This means, if you’re on a waitlist, your confirmation chances will mostly be decided well before the travel time, giving you ample opportunity to seek alternatives if necessary.
IRCTC App & Station Display Boards Updated
IRCTC has also synchronized this 8-hour charting update with its digital systems. Passengers can check chart status, seat numbers, and final reservation details via:
- IRCTC website
- IRCTC Rail Connect mobile app
- Station enquiry counters and digital display boards
Real-time updates will continue to reflect for current bookings after the first chart is prepared.
Final Words
This 8-hour charting system is another step by Indian Railways toward passenger-centric modernization. It provides greater certainty to passengers, reduces last-minute rushes, and improves seat management. Travelers are advised to check their ticket status accordingly and plan their journeys with this revised schedule in mind.
Stay connected to IRCTC for real-time chart updates and confirmation status before your next train ride.
