In India, many people rely on train travel for their livelihood. Many individuals travel occasionally for vacations or to visit their hometowns, while others commute daily for business or work.
Crores of people use trains daily, as Indian Railways operates thousands of trains for the public. For long-distance travel across the country, trains are the preferred choice due to their comfort and convenience.
Train Ticket Rules
Indian Railways has established rules that all passengers must adhere to. One crucial rule pertains to train tickets: passengers must travel in the same coach for which they have booked a ticket.
For instance, if you have a third AC ticket, you must board only the third AC coach; traveling in the first or second AC coaches with a third AC ticket is prohibited.
According to Indian Railways regulations, you cannot travel in a higher-class coach than the one indicated on your ticket.
If you attempt to do so, you will be fined by the TTE (Travelling Ticket Examiner) upon his inspection. This rule applies whether you elevate from the third AC to the second AC or from the second AC to the first AC.
If you are caught traveling in a higher class with a third AC ticket, the TTE will impose a fine of Rs. 250, charging you the fare difference between the ticket you purchased and the class you are attempting to occupy.
It’s important to note that paying the fine does not allow you to continue your journey with a higher-class coach. The TTE will require you to return to the third AC coach.
However, if there are vacant seats in the first or second AC coaches, the TTE may allow you to travel there after charging the fare difference.
Traveling with a Waiting Ticket
Indian Railways has also tightened rules regarding waiting for tickets. Passengers with waiting tickets can only travel in reserved or reserved coaches.
If a TTE checks your ticket and finds you have a waiting ticket, you will face a fine. If the TTE is displeased, you may be deboarded from the train midway through your journey.