Understanding Confirmations and RAC Tickets on Train 12863 Howrah-SMVT SF EXP

The Indian Railways offers a variety of travel options, including RUN-AFTER-CANCELLATION (RAC) tickets, which can often lead to confirmation before departure. This article primarily focuses on the Howrah-SMVT SF Express (Train 12863) and explores the chances of confirmation for RAC tickets by 16/08/2024.

About Howrah - SMVT Bengaluru Express

Overview of the Train

The Howrah SMVT Bengaluru SF Express (Train 12863) operates twice a week between Howrah Junction and SMVT Bengaluru. It is a superfast express train that covers a journey of 1942 kilometers in approximately 32 hours, with a travel time of 31 hours 55 minutes in one direction and 33 hours 35 minutes in the reverse direction.

Train Schedule

The departure and arrival timings are as follows:

Train 12863: Departs Howrah Junction at 10:50 PM and arrives at SMVT Bengaluru at 06:45 AM on the third day of the journey. Train 12864: Departs SMVT Bengaluru at 10:35 AM and arrives at Howrah Junction at 08:10 PM on the next day.

Train Composition and Seats

The train is hauled by electric locomotives WAP-7 from Howrah Junction to Visakhapatnam and LGD shed from Visakhapatnam to SMVT Bengaluru. The train consists of 22 coaches in the following classification:

5 AC III Tier Coaches 3 AC III Tier Economy Coaches 2 AC II Tier Coaches 1 Pantry Car 7 Sleeper Coaches 2 Unreserved Coaches 2 End on Generator (EOG) Vans

This train is highly popular among medical patients traveling to southern India for free or affordable medical treatment at hospitals like Sathya Sai Baba Hospital in Bengaluru and Christian Medical College in Vellore.

Route and Stops

The train travels through various zones of Indian Railways via cities such as Kharagpur, Balasore, Bhubaneswar, Ongole, Brahmapur, Visakhapatnam, Rajahmundry, Srikakulam Road, Vijayawada, Nellore, Tirupati, and Jolarpettai.

Understanding RAC Tickets and Confirmation Chances

Concept of RAC Tickets

RUN-AFTER-CANCELLATION (RAC) tickets are reserved upon the confirmation of cancellations on the same train. These tickets are issued at least 2 hours before the train departure and are subject to confirmation.

Chances of Confirmation by 16/08/2024

Based on the current scenario, your RAC ticket (number 13) is likely to be confirmed by 16 August 2024. The number 13 indicates that there are 12 passengers ahead of you in the queue for confirmation, and the availability in the AC III Tier economy coaches makes confirmation more probable.

Confirmation Process

After the chart preparation, IRCTC will send a confirmation SMS to your registered mobile number. If you have opted for auto-upgradation, your ticket may get upgraded to a higher class.

Monitoring Your PNR Status

It is advisable to check your PNR status once a week or as advised by IRCTC.

Hope this clarifies your doubts!

Thank you for your continued support and understanding.