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New Changes to Passenger Waiting List Regulations

New Delhi: The Ministry of Railways has announced an increase in the waiting list limits for passengers, raising it from 25% to 60% for all air-conditioned classes and to 30% for non-AC classes, as per a new directive issued on Saturday.

Initially, the cap on waiting lists was set at 25% for all classes in an order released on April 17, which was communicated to all railway zones and the Centre for Railway Information System (CRIS).

The CRIS subsequently updated the reservation system, which took effect on June 16.

A senior official from the ministry, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, "Just 12 days after the implementation of the 25% cap, the ministry recognized the error and nearly reversed its decision."

The recent circular from the Railway Ministry indicated that the maximum waiting list limits would now be adjusted to 60% for air-conditioned classes and 30% for non-AC classes, based on the redefined capacity at both originating and roadside stations.

This new guideline will also apply to waitlisted tickets issued from remote locations and those booked under the Tatkal scheme.

However, the waiting list limit will not apply to tickets purchased at concessional rates, such as warrants.

To facilitate the issuance of waiting list tickets from remote areas with no defined berths, a predefined waiting list limit will be established based on demand patterns.

Earlier reports highlighted that the 25% limit was deemed impractical by reservation supervisors and ticket clerks, as it was seen as detrimental to both the railway's financial health and passenger convenience.

The withdrawal order issued on Saturday instructed all principal chief commercial managers to acknowledge the changes and for CRIS to update the reservation system accordingly.

Previously, a 2013 circular set the waiting list caps at 30 for first AC/EC and 100 for 2 AC classes, while first class, 3AC/Chair Car, and sleeper classes had limits of 30, 300, and 400, respectively.

A senior railway official commented, "It is commendable that the ministry has reconsidered the April 17 directive, as it was a misguided decision that negatively impacted both the railways and passengers. There is also a pressing need to raise the cap for non-AC classes."