With the launch of Amrit Bharat II Express trains in January 2026, Indian Railways is set to transform long-distance travel. One major change is the removal of Reservation Against Cancellation (RAC) in Sleeper class. This means no more uncertainty about shared berths or standing space. Instead, every berth will be fully confirmed at the start of ticket bookings.
Impact of Removing RAC
RAC tickets have allowed passengers to travel without a guaranteed seat for years. However, the shared space often made journeys uncomfortable. The Amrit Bharat trains will now offer a straightforward confirmed-berth system, making travel less stressful.
New Booking Rules:
- No RAC tickets in Sleeper class.
- All berths confirmed at booking.
- Special quotas for women, senior citizens, and disabled travelers remain, but no partial confirmations will be issued.
Railway officials believe this change will reduce confusion and enhance the overall travel experience for millions.
Updated Fare Structure
Along with removing RAC, Indian Railways is revising its fare policies. The new rules introduce a more transparent pricing structure. Passengers will now pay a minimum fare based on distance.
Key Updates:
- Sleeper class fare starts at ₹149 for journeys up to 200 km.
- Second-class fare starts at ₹36 for journeys up to 50 km.
- Other charges will apply separately at booking.
These changes aim to help travelers understand their costs better while ensuring the Railways can sustainably manage expenses.
Focus on Digital Payments and Refunds
The Railway Board is also encouraging digital payments for ticket bookings. This switch allows quicker refunds—typically processed within 24 hours. For those unable to pay digitally, refunds will still be handled through standard processes.
Prioritizing Passenger Comfort
Passenger comfort is a priority with the new trains. The policy will prioritize lower berths for vulnerable groups like children, senior citizens, and women over 45, enhancing their travel experience.
Looking Ahead
The Amrit Bharat family of trains aims to offer affordable and reliable long-distance connectivity. Fares are expected to average around ₹500 per 1,000 km, making these services competitive and accessible.
With these changes, Indian Railways is making strides towards modernizing travel for everyday passengers. The emphasis on confirmed berths, clear pricing, and passenger comfort reflects a commitment to improving the travel experience. As these reforms roll out, travelers can look forward to a more reliable railway journey in the years ahead.
For detailed information on these changes, you can check the Indian Railways official site.
