Missed connections, sudden plan changes, or spontaneous getaways—train travel is full of surprises.
From January 2026, Indian Railways is making flexibility its mantra, letting passengers tweak their travel dates online without paying a penny in cancellation fees, ensuring journeys stay stress-free and wallet-friendly, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed NDTV.
The Current Scenario
Currently, passengers must cancel their ticket and book a new one to change travel dates, often facing deductions based on how close the cancellation is to the departure.
“This system is unfair and not in the interest of passengers,” Vaishnaw said, adding that instructions have been issued to implement the passenger-friendly changes.
What Will Change?
Vaishnaw clarified that while passengers can adjust travel dates without penalty, confirmation of the new ticket will depend on seat availability. Additionally, if the ticket for the new date costs more, travellers will have to pay the fare difference.
“This move will help millions of passengers who currently face significant cancellation fees when plans change,” the Minister said.
Under the current system, cancelling a confirmed ticket 48 to 12 hours before departure incurs a 25% deduction, with higher fees for cancellations 12 to 4 hours before travel. Once the reservation chart is prepared, refunds are generally not given. Any difference in fare for rebooking is charged to the passenger.
With this initiative, Indian Railways aims to offer travellers more flexibility, convenience, and financial relief, particularly during sudden changes in travel plans
