Railway Increases RAC Berths To Allow More Passenger To Travel On Board Trains
Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Railways
19-December-2025 17:59 IST
Ministry Of Railway Increases RAC Berths To Allow More Passenger To Travel On Board Trains
Ministry of Railways has decided to revise the number of berths to be earmarked as Reservation Against Cancellation (RAC) in coaches of different classes as under. The move will help in allowing more persons to travel in the train : –
| Class | Revised | |||
| No. of additional berths to be provided for RAC passengers | No. of additional RAC passengers to be provided sitting accommodation | Total No. of berths to be earmarked for RAC passengers | Total Number of RAC passengers to be provided confirmed accommodation | |
| Sleeper (SL) |
2 Side Lower berths | 4 | 7 (Side Lower) | 14 |
| 3AC | 2 Side Lower Berths | 4 | 4 (Side Lower) | 8 |
| 2AC | 1 Side Lower Berths | 2 | 3 (Side Lower) | 6 |
The enhanced RAC accommodation will be available in trains in which booking will be opened from 16th January, 2025.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the policy whereby Indian Railways increased RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) berths, allowing more passengers to travel onboard:
Contents
Background & Policy Change (Effective January 2025)
To accommodate more travelers—without increasing coach count—Indian Railways issued a circular to revise the number of RAC berths in Mail/Express train coaches. Here’s what changed:
| Coach Type | Previous RAC Berths | Revised RAC Berths | Total RAC Passengers Accommodated |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sleeper (SL) | 5 side lower berths | 7 side lower berths | 14 passengers (2 per berth) |
| 3AC (Third AC) | 2 side lower berths | 4 side lower berths | 8 passengers |
| 2AC (Second AC) | 2 side lower berths | 3 side lower berths | 6 passengers |
- Implementation Date: The updated RAC norms took effect for bookings opened from 16–17 January 2025.
- Rationale: The move aimed to improve passenger accommodation and generate additional revenue—estimated at ₹250–300 crore annually.
- Courier Changes: Railways adjusted the ticketing software to reflect the increased RAC capacities and updated booking protocols accordingly.
Higher Comfort for RAC Passengers (2025 Update)
In a recent upgrade, RAC passengers in AC coaches are now entitled to full berths along with amenities such as bedroll kits—comprising a sheets, blanket, pillow, and towel. This enhancement greatly improves travel comfort for RAC travelers.
Quick Summary
- The number of RAC berths in Sleeper, 3AC, and 2AC coaches was increased in early 2017, effectively allowing more passengers to travel with confirmed sitting arrangements.
- RAC passengers in AC classes now receive full berths and extra onboard amenities.
- The initiative enhanced capacity utilization, reduced waitlist load, and contributed to additional revenue.
These adjustments reflect Indian Railways’ ongoing efforts to balance operational efficiency with passenger convenience. Want to know how RAC fares are processed or how upgrades take place during travel?