Instructions On Boarding Train-Guidelines for Train Services beginning on 01-06-2025
Instructions On Boarding Train-Guidelines for Train Services beginning on 01-06-2025
Guidelines for Train Services beginning on 1st June, 2025-Instructions On Boarding Train
- All passengers to be compulsorily screened & only asymptomatic passengers allowed to board
- Passengers to reach the station at least 90 minutes in advance
- Only passengers with confirmed tickets to be allowed to enter Railway station
- All passengers must wear masks at the entry and during travel
- Passengers to observe social distancing both at the station & on trains
- On arrival at their destination, passengers to adhere to health protocols as prescribed by the destination State/UTs
Here’s the verified guidance on boarding procedures starting 1 June 2025, reflecting new Indian Railways policies and safety protocols:
Contents
🚉 Boarding Train: What You Need to Know (Effective 1 June 2025)
1. No Boarding in AC/Sleeper if Waitlisted
- From 1 May 2025, passengers holding waitlisted (WL) tickets are strictly prohibited from boarding AC and Sleeper coaches, regardless of how tickets were booked. Confirmed passengers only are allowed in reserved coaches. ([turn0search6]turn0news24]turn0search17]turn0search13])
- Violations incur fines: ₹250 for Sleeper, ₹440 for AC, plus applicable fare from boarding point to next station. If caught, you’ll be asked to move to a general (unreserved) coach. ([turn0search4]turn0search17]turn0search13])
2. Boarding Station Change Window
- Changing your boarding station is permitted up to 24 hours before departure, if the reservation chart hasn’t been prepared. After charting, changes aren’t allowed.
- Doing so within 24 hrs can disqualify you from refunds except in cases like train cancellation or delays over 3 hours. ([turn0search15]turn0search12])
3. Reservation Chart Preparation
- Chart preparation now occurs 8 hours before train departure, requiring you to verify your PNR status well ahead of time. ([turn0search19]turn0search1])
4. Seating Eligibility Rules
- Only fully confirmed or RAC tickets are permitted to board Sleeper or AC coaches.
- Passengers who remain on full WL status post-charting can travel only in unreserved general compartments. ([turn0search16]turn0search4])
5. Aadhaar-Linked Bookings
- From 1 July 2025, Aadhaar-based OTP verification is mandatory for all Tatkal ticket bookings. Agents will be restricted during peak booking times. ([turn0search7]turn0search2])
6. Health & Safety Advisory (Special/Irregular Trains)
- Though originally linked to COVID-19 protocols, these remain influential:
- Staff and onboard crew should wear masks and gloves.
- Thermal screening may still be conducted at stations.
- TTEs issue formal certificates if symptomatic travelers are denied boarding—entitling them to full refunds. ([turn0search3])
✅ Boarding Quick-Check Guide
Scenario | Allowed to Board? | Coach Type |
---|---|---|
Confirmed ticket | ✅ Yes | Reserved coach |
RAC ticket (after charting) | ✅ Yes | Reserved coach |
Fully waitlisted ticket | ❌ No | General coach only |
After switching boarding station within 24h | ❌ Restriction applies | May forfeit refund |
Boarding station change pre-chart | ✅ Allowed | Confirm journey plan |
Tatkal booked without Aadhaar OTP (after Jul 1) | ❌ Blocked | Not allowed |
🧭 Why These Rules Exist
- To prevent overcrowding and improve journey experience for confirmed ticket holders.
- To ensure better enforcement of ticket quotas and discourage misuse.
- To maintain orderly boarding aligned with revised booking and refund policies.
Would you like help with:
- Checking your PNR eligibility before departure?
- Details on Aadhaar OTP setup for Tatkal booking?
- Finding train-specific boarding/station change options?
Just let me know—I’m here to help you travel smoothly!