How Many Tatkal Tickets Can Be Booked in IRCTC: Tatkal tickets are a lifesaver for passengers who need to travel on short notice. Introduced by Indian Railways, Tatkal booking allows travelers to secure tickets a day before their journey. The IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) platform is the go-to destination for booking Tatkal tickets. But how many Tatkal tickets can one book? Let’s dive into the details.
General Rules for Tatkal Ticket Booking on IRCTC
Tatkal tickets can be booked online or at railway counters. Here are some key rules:
- Booking Timings:
- AC Classes (2A/3A/CC/EC/3E): Booking starts at 10:00 AM one day prior to the journey.
- Non-AC Classes (SL/FC/2S): Booking starts at 11:00 AM one day prior to the journey.
- Quota Availability: Tatkal bookings are available across multiple classes but are not applicable for First AC or General categories.
How Many Tatkal Tickets Can Be Booked in IRCTC?
Per PNR (Passenger Name Record)
Each Tatkal booking can include a maximum of 4 passengers under a single PNR.
Per User ID
During the Tatkal booking window (“Tatkal hours” from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon), a user ID can book only 2 tickets per day.
Device Restrictions
To prevent misuse, only one booking session is allowed per IP address during Tatkal hours. This ensures fair access for all users.
Booking Across Classes
Tatkal tickets can be booked in:
- Sleeper Class (SL)
- AC 3-Tier (3A)
- AC 2-Tier (2A)
- AC Chair Car (CC)
- Executive Class (EC)
However, Tatkal bookings are not available for:
- First AC (1A)
- General (UR)
Practical Tips to Maximize Bookings
Booking Tatkal tickets can be challenging due to high demand. Here are some tips to improve your chances:
- Log in Early: Log in to your IRCTC account at least 5-10 minutes before the booking window opens.
- Prepare Details in Advance: Keep passenger details such as name, age, gender, and ID proof ready.
- Use High-Speed Internet: Ensure a stable and fast internet connection to avoid delays.
- Autofill Plugins: Use browser autofill extensions to enter passenger details quickly.
- Payment Method: Choose a payment method you’re familiar with to complete the transaction swiftly.
Consequences of Violating Booking Rules
IRCTC enforces strict rules to maintain fairness. Violating these rules can result in:
- Account Penalties: Blocking of user accounts for suspicious activity.
- Booking Cancellation: Tickets booked through unauthorized means may be canceled.
FAQs About Tatkal Ticket Booking Limits
Why is there a limit on Tatkal ticket bookings?
The limits ensure fair access for all passengers and prevent misuse by agents or bots.
Can multiple user IDs be used for more bookings?
Using multiple user IDs from the same IP address may result in penalties or booking restrictions.
What happens if some passengers in the PNR are waitlisted?
If a Tatkal PNR includes confirmed and waitlisted passengers:
- Confirmed passengers can travel.
- Waitlisted tickets may get confirmed during chart preparation.
Conclusion
Tatkal tickets are an excellent option for last-minute travel, but understanding the booking limits is crucial for a smooth experience. By adhering to IRCTC’s rules and preparing in advance, you can increase your chances of securing tickets. Plan wisely and make the most of the Tatkal quota for your urgent travel needs!
