Tatkal Timings Remain Unchanged: IRCTC Refutes Rumors of Booking Schedule Shift for April 18

Key Highlights:

Tatkal Timings for April 18, 2025, remain unchanged, according to an official clarification by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). Despite widespread rumors about new timings coming into effect from mid-April, the IRCTC has stated that the standard booking hours for Tatkal tickets will continue without change.

Tatkal Booking Timings as of April 18, 2025

Under the existing policy, Tatkal tickets for different travel classes will be available at the following times:

• AC Classes (2A, 3A, Executive Chair Car, AC Chair Car, 3E):
  📌 10:00 AM, one day before the journey date from the originating station.
• Non-AC Classes (Sleeper, Second Sitting):
  📌 11:00 AM, one day before the train’s scheduled departure.

For example, if a train is scheduled to depart on April 19, the Tatkal booking window will open on April 18 as per the above timings.

IRCTC’s Official Statement

In light of misinformation circulating on social platforms, IRCTC issued a formal response:

“No such change in timings is currently proposed in the Tatkal or Premium Tatkal booking timings for AC or Non-AC classes. The permitted booking timings for agents also remain unchanged.”

This clarification ensures that passengers planning urgent travel can continue using the existing schedule without disruption.

Key Tatkal Ticket Booking Guidelines

• ✅ Advance Booking: Allowed one day in advance from train’s origin.
• 👥 Passenger Limit: Maximum 4 persons per Tatkal PNR.
• 💰 Tatkal Charges:
  • 10% of base fare for Second Sitting
  • 30% of base fare for other classes (subject to minimum/maximum thresholds)
• 🚫 Refund Policy:
  • No refunds for confirmed Tatkal tickets.
  • Standard rules apply to RAC and waitlisted Tatkal bookings.

What This Means for You

For passengers depending on last-minute travel options:

• ✅ Continue booking AC class Tatkal tickets at 10:00 AM
• ✅ Continue booking non-AC class Tatkal tickets at 11:00 AM
• ❌ Don’t fall for rumors about revised timings
• 📱 Use the official IRCTC portal for accurate, real-time ticketing

How to Take Action

To avoid errors while booking:

• 🖥️ Use official platforms only—IRCTC website or verified apps
• 📲 Set reminders before the booking window opens
• 🧾 Keep ID details ready for fast entry
• 💼 Use fast payment options like IRCTC eWallet or UPI for faster checkout

Who Will Be Affected

• Last-minute travelers and emergency bookings
• IRCTC agents and online booking service providers
• Frequent intercity passengers and students
• Pilgrims and tourists during festival or summer travel season

Conclusion: Tatkal Timings Stay Unchanged — Book Smart, Book Official

Tatkal Timings for April 18 and beyond are not being modified, confirms IRCTC. Travelers should continue to book at the standard 10 AM (AC) and 11 AM (Non-AC) slots. The IRCTC’s prompt clarification has ensured confidence among passengers and agents alike, reaffirming that official channels remain the most reliable source for ticketing updates.

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