In a significant policy reversal, the Railway Board has revised its controversial 25% cap on waiting list tickets, following widespread public backlash and concerns over reduced ticket availability. The new directive, issued on June 28, 2025, now permits up to 60% waiting list quota for air-conditioned (AC) classes and 30% for non-air-conditioned (non-AC) classes, including at both originating and roadside stations.
📌 Key Highlights
| Parameter | Previous Policy (April 17, 2025) | Revised Policy (June 28, 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| AC Class Waiting List Cap | 25% | 60% |
| Non-AC Class Waiting List Cap | 25% | 30% |
| Applicability | All classes, all stations | All classes, including Tatkal and remote stations |
| Exemptions | None | Concessional fares, govt warrants excluded |
🧠 Background: Why the 25% Cap Was Introduced
The original cap, implemented on June 16, 2025, was part of a broader effort to streamline ticketing and reduce overcrowding on Indian Railways. Officials argued that limiting waiting list tickets to 25% of redefined berth capacity would improve passenger comfort and reduce overbooking chaos during peak seasons.
However, the move was met with strong resistance from passengers, ticketing staff, and commercial officers, who deemed it impractical and revenue-negative. The cap led to a sharp drop in ticket availability, especially on high-demand routes, triggering widespread dissatisfaction.
🔁 Pivot Table: Waiting List Caps Before and After Revision
| Class Type | Old Cap (2013) | April 2025 Cap | June 2025 Cap |
|---|---|---|---|
| First AC/Executive | 30 | 25% | 60% |
| 2AC | 100 | 25% | 60% |
| 3AC/Chair Car | 300 | 25% | 60% |
| Sleeper Class | 400 | 25% | 30% |
🚦 What Prompted the Reversal?
The Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) implemented the 25% cap through software updates, but within just 12 days, the Railway Ministry acknowledged the policy’s shortcomings. Passenger associations, reservation supervisors, and even internal officials flagged the cap as unrealistic, especially for Tatkal bookings and remote station quotas.
“The earlier cap was hurting both passenger confidence and revenue. It’s reassuring that the ministry responded swiftly,” said a senior railway official.
🛡️ New Policy Details: What’s Changed?
- AC Classes: Waiting list quota increased to 60% of redefined capacity.
- Non-AC Classes: Waiting list quota raised to 30%.
- Remote Stations: Predefined limits based on historical demand patterns.
- Tatkal Scheme: Revised caps apply to Tatkal bookings as well.
- Exemptions: Concessional fare tickets and government travel warrants remain unaffected.
The Railway Board has instructed all Principal Chief Commercial Managers (PCCMs) to implement the revised system immediately. CRIS has been directed to update the reservation software accordingly.
📊 Impact on Passengers and Revenue
| Impact Area | Before Revision (25% Cap) | After Revision (60%/30% Cap) |
|---|---|---|
| Ticket Availability | Severely restricted | Significantly improved |
| Passenger Sentiment | Negative, frustrated | Positive, hopeful |
| Revenue Generation | Declined due to fewer bookings | Expected to rebound |
| Operational Flexibility | Limited | Enhanced |
🧩 Regional Considerations and Demand-Based Quotas
The revised policy also introduces flexibility for remote and roadside stations, where confirmed berths are often unavailable. In such cases, waiting list limits will be pre-defined based on regional demand, ensuring equitable access across zones.
🧠 Expert Take: A Course Correction in Time
Railway analysts and passenger rights groups have welcomed the move, calling it a “course correction” that balances operational efficiency with public convenience.
“The 25% cap was well-intentioned but poorly executed. The new limits are more aligned with real-world demand,” said a transport economist.
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