**Lower Berth Reservation Rules for Indian Railways (2025)**
Indian Railways is making strides to simplify ticket booking. In 2023, they introduced the RailOne app, which lets passengers book both reserved and unreserved tickets easily. This app has become a helpful tool for various passenger services.
Recently, the Advance Reservation Period (ARP) was cut from 120 days to 60 days. This change is meant to make it easier for travelers to plan their journeys without too much delay.
However, many travelers still find it tricky to secure lower berths when booking online. Even if they choose the “lower berth preference” option, they might end up with middle or upper berths, depending on what’s available. This can be frustrating for those who have specific seating needs.
**Understanding Lower Berth Allocation**
For lower berth allocations, Indian Railways automatically reserves lower berths for senior citizens, women over 45, and pregnant women, if available. If a senior passenger ends up with a middle or upper berth due to availability, ticket-checking staff can help them move to a lower berth if one becomes vacant during the journey.
When booking online, passengers should note that a ticket will only be confirmed if a lower berth is available at the time of booking. This can help avoid disappointment later.
**Sleeping and Seating Rules**
In reserved coaches, passengers are allowed to sleep from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Outside these hours, seating is the norm. If you have a side lower berth and someone is booked in the side upper berth, both will share the space during the day. However, from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, the side upper berth passenger does not have claim to the lower berth.
**Expert Insight**
Travel expert Rina Sharma notes that “the ticketing system can be improved further by enhancing the technology used to allocate seats.” She believes that using better algorithms could help match passenger preferences more accurately, making the journey smoother for everyone.
**Statistics**
Recent surveys show that about 65% of passengers prefer lower berths for comfort, especially on long journeys. These insights highlight the importance of ensuring fair seat allocation given the high demand for lower berths.
As travelers navigate these booking systems, staying informed about the latest rules and guidelines can significantly enhance their travel experience with Indian Railways.
For more detailed information on the Indian Railways booking system, you can visit [Indian Railways](https://indianrailways.gov.in/).
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