Indian Railways has expanded the ticket upgrade scheme. Now free upgrade from sleeper ticket to second AC is possible. More than 7,000 reserved tickets will be upgraded in 300 trains of Bhopal division, in which passengers will get better facilities without any additional charge.
Keeping in mind the convenience of passengers, Indian Railways has made significant changes in its ticket upgradation scheme. Under the new scheme, sleeper class tickets can now be upgraded to Second AC (2AC) free of cost, which was earlier limited to only one class higher (Sleeper to Third AC). The scheme will be extended to 300 passenger trains of Bhopal division, under which over 7,000 reserved tickets are planned to be upgraded. This step will provide a more comfortable and luxurious travel experience to passengers at no extra cost, especially on long distance journeys.
Details of the new upgrade scheme
Indian Railways has further expanded the auto upgrade scheme launched in 2006. Under this scheme, sleeper class passengers were upgraded to Third AC (3AC) and 3AC passengers to Second AC (2AC), provided seats were available in the higher class. Under the new scheme, sleeper class passengers will now be able to directly upgrade to Second AC if seats are available. This process is fully automated and is implemented by the Passenger Reservation System (PRS) while generating the chart. Passengers will have to select the option “Consider for Auto Upgrade” at the time of ticket booking. If a passenger does not select this option, it will be considered as “Yes” by default.
Impact on Bhopal Division
The Bhopal Division, an important part of West Central Railway, will benefit the most from this new scheme. Around 7,000 reserved tickets are expected to be upgraded daily in the division’s 300 passenger trains, including mail/express and superfast trains. The scheme will be particularly effective on routes where there is a high demand for sleeper class but seats remain vacant in AC coaches. For example, trains connecting Bhopal with Delhi, Mumbai and other major cities will provide better facilities to passengers, such as air-conditioned coaches, better bedding, and more privacy.
Terms and Conditions of the Scheme
Some of the key terms of the new upgradation scheme are as follows:
Eligibility: This facility is available only to full-fare passengers. Passengers with concessionary tickets (senior citizens, railway passes, or other concessions) will not be eligible for an upgrade.
Automated Process: Upgradation is done automatically by PRS while generating the chart. TTE or Train Conductor has no authority to upgrade.
Seat Availability: Upgradation will take place only if there are at least six vacant seats in the higher class (3AC or 2AC). If all passengers cannot be upgraded, no one will be upgraded.
Cancellation Cases: If the upgraded ticket is cancelled, only the original class (sleeper) cancellation charges will apply.
Coordination with VIKALP Scheme: This scheme will also work with VIKALP Scheme, where passengers included in the waitlist can be given confirmed seats in alternative trains.
Benefits for Passengers
This new scheme will provide several benefits to passengers. By travelling in Second AC on Sleeper Class fare, passengers will get better facilities, such as air-conditioned coaches, clean toilets and bedding facilities, free of cost. This is especially beneficial for those passengers who travel long distances and are bothered by the crowding in Sleeper Class. Apart from this, the Railways will also reduce its revenue loss by using vacant seats.
Social and Administrative Response
This new scheme is being widely discussed on social media. Many passengers have termed it a welcome move by the Railways, while some have questioned whether it will reduce the availability of sleeper class. Railway officials of Bhopal division have assured that this scheme will not have any impact on the availability of sleeper class seats as the upgradation is based only on vacant seats.
Conclusion
This new upgrade scheme of Indian Railways can prove to be a boon for the passengers. Upgradation of over 7,000 tickets in 300 trains of Bhopal division will not only improve the travel experience but will also increase the seat utilization of the railways. Passengers are advised to opt for the auto upgrade option at the time of ticket booking and check their coach and berth number before travelling. This scheme is an example of progressive policies of the Railways, which is beneficial for both the passengers and the railways.
