Emergency Quota ticket booking new rule: Indian Railways has changed the rules related to Emergency Quota (EQ) so that passengers can get seats easily in case of sudden travel needs. Now it will be necessary to apply for EQ ticket within the stipulated time, one day before the journey. This will also make it easier to prepare charts and run trains.
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What are the new rules for emergency quota?
According to the new circular of the Railway Ministry, now if a passenger wants a seat in the Emergency Quota (EQ), he will have to apply one day before his journey.
If your train departs between 12:00 AM and 2:00 PM (14:00 hrs), your emergency quota request must reach EQ Cell by 12:00 PM on the previous day.
If the train departs between 2:01 PM and 11:59 PM, EQ request must be submitted by 4 PM on the previous day.
Keep in mind, the request sent on the same day of the train will not be accepted. That is, now there is no hope of getting a ticket on a last minute request. If the train is on Sunday or holiday, send the application on the previous working day only.
How does EQ work?
Emergency quota is mainly reserved for government officials, MPs, HOR holders etc. If they are not requested, other passengers such as those with medical emergencies, job interviews, family needs etc. are given priority. This process is based on seniority and requirement.
Some big changes in railways from July 2025, know what’s new?
Reservation chart will now be prepared first
The Railway Board has decided that now the reservation chart of trains will be prepared 8 hours before the departure of the train. If your train departs before 2 pm, then its chart will be prepared at 9 pm the day before. This will help passengers know the waitlist status beforehand and it will be easier to plan.
2. Time limit on ticket booking by agents
From 1st July 2025, Railways has implemented the rule that authorized agents will not be able to book tickets during certain times so that general passengers can get a chance first and ticket blocking can be reduced.
3. OTP is now required for Tatkal tickets
From July 15, 2025, all Tatkal tickets booked through railway computerized counters or authorized agents will now require verification through OTP (One Time Password). This will prevent fake booking.
4. Aadhaar is now necessary to book tickets from IRCTC
From July 1, 2025, if you want to buy Tatkal tickets from IRCTC’s official website or mobile app, you will have to verify your Aadhaar number first. Tickets will not be available without Aadhaar authentication.
Who will get the benefit?
A clear timeline will be ensured for those seeking last minute seats. People will be able to plan their future travel by knowing about waiting list clearance quickly. There will be extra clarity in emergency quota application during public festivals and holidays. Efforts to prevent fraud at the last moment, ticket booking will become easy and transparent.
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