Understanding Cancellation Policies for Waitlisted AC Chair Car and 2nd Seating Tickets in India

When traveling by train in India, passengers often find themselves in situations where they need to cancel their travel plans. Whether it is a waitlisted AC chair car or a 2nd seating ticket, the cancellation policies can vary depending on the type of ticket and the time of cancellation. This article provides an overview of the cancellation charges for these tickets and helps you plan your travel more effectively.

Overview of Cancellation Charges for Waitlisted Train Tickets

Cancellation charges for train tickets in India are determined by the type of ticket and the time before which it is canceled. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the cancellation policies for both AC chair cars and 2nd seating tickets:

AC Chair Car Waitlisted Ticket

Before the Chart is Prepared:

Full refund is provided with no cancellation fee.

After the Chart is Prepared:

No refund is provided as the chart is already prepared.

2nd Seating Waitlisted Ticket

Before the Chart is Prepared:

Full refund is provided with no cancellation fee.

After the Chart is Prepared:

No refund is provided as the chart is already prepared.

Additional Notes and Guidelines

Chart Preparation: Usually, the chart preparation occurs a few hours before the train's departure. It is crucial to be aware of this timeline.

Online Cancellations: Although the process may vary slightly for online cancellations, the refund policies remain the same. Always verify the latest guidelines on the Indian Railways website or app for any updates.

Specific Cancellation Charges for Waitlisted Tickets

If a waitlisted ticket, including Temporary Quota Waitlisted (TQWL) or Restricted Against Championship (RAC) ticket, is canceled more than half an hour before the scheduled departure of the train, no cancellation charges will be deducted. However, if it is canceled within half an hour of the scheduled departure, Clerkage Charges will be applicable:

Clerkage Charges:

@ Rs 30 in 2nd Class Sitting (Non-AC) @ Rs 60 in Sleeper (Non-AC) @ Rs 60 GST in all other classes including 1st Class, 3AC, 2AC, EC, and 1AC (AC Classes)

Confirmation and Waiting Ticket Cancellation Charges:

More Than 48 Hours Before Train Departure:

Flat Rs 240 for AC First Class or Executive Class Flat Rs 200 for AC 2 Tier or First Class Flat Rs 180 for AC 3 Tier or AC Chair Car or AC 3 Economy Flat Rs 120 for Sleeper Class Flat Rs 60 for 2nd Class

Within 48-12 Hours Before Train Departure:

A cancellation charge of 25% of the fare will be deducted, subject to the minimum flat rate mentioned above.

12-4 Hours Before Train Departure or Until Chart Preparation:

A cancellation charge of 50% of the fare paid will be applicable, subject to the minimum cancellation charges.

E-Tickets After Chart Preparation:

Online or e-tickets cannot be canceled after the chart preparation of the train. The chart preparation time is considered for cancellation. If you need to cancel your e-ticket after the chart preparation, you must file an online TDR request through IRCTC.

Important Note: If the ticket is for a waitlisted train (TQWL/RAC), it will automatically be cancelled after the chart is prepared, and the money will be refunded without charges.

Always keep track of your chart preparation time and follow the Indian Railways guidelines for the most accurate information.