Understanding Your Train Ticket Reservation Status - WL/31 and RAC/21

A commonly encountered scenario for train commuters is dealing with reservation statuses such as WL/31 and RAC/21. This article will help you decypher what these terms mean, how your ticket status is determined, and what steps you can take in case you want to cancel the booking.

What Does WL/31 Mean?

WL/31 means that your train ticket has been booked on the waitlist. This implies that you’re listed as the 31st person in the queue. If 31 confirmed passengers ahead of you cancel their tickets, you will be the one to get the seat. Otherwise, your reservation status might revert depending on the number of cancellations.

What Does RAC/21 Mean?

A reservation against cancellation (RAC) indicates a higher chance of your ticket being confirmed. Here, RAC/21 means that you are the 21st person in the RAC queue. It suggests that a seat has been reserved for you, but it is shared with another passenger. Typically, your berth gets confirmed if any cancellations occur before the train’s scheduled departure.

Partially Confirmed Ticket

Your ticket is considered to be partially confirmed. Initially, it was waitlisted at position 31 but has since been upgraded to the RAC category, with seat number 21 now confirmed. While you have a seat confirmed, it is shared with another passenger. There is a possibility that your ticket might fully confirm if more seats become available due to cancellations.

What to Do if You Don’t Want to Travel

If you are not willing to travel and prefer a refund, you can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before the scheduled departure of the train. However, a cancellation fee of 65 rupees will be deducted for AC class passengers. This is important information to keep in mind when planning your travel schedule.

What Happens if Your Seat Isn’t Confirmed?

Even if your seat isn’t confirmed, you are allowed to travel and occupy the seat that is allotted to you. If your berth is not confirmed four hours prior to departure, it is likely to be confirmed during the journey. To stay updated, always check the reservation chart, which is displayed on the platform four hours before the train’s departure time. Additionally, the train will send a message via SMS informing you about the seating arrangement once the chart is prepared.

Final Tips and Reminders

Your comfortable journey will depend on the final confirmation of your berth. It is advised to remain patient and wait for the confirmation. If you receive a message confirming your seat, make sure to carry your travel documents and board the train on time. Follow the instructions provided by the reservations team at the station to avoid any last-minute issues.

Key Takeaways

WL (Waitlist): Position on a queue, waiting for cancellations. RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation): Higher chance of seat confirmation if cancellations occur. Pay the cancellation fee of 65 rupees for AC class if you cancel before the departure. Check the reservation chart and mobile SMS for your final seat confirmation.

Understanding these terms and following the outlined procedures will help ensure a smoother and more worry-free train journey.