Indian Railways Revises Reservation Chart Timing, Ticket Status Now Available 10 Hours Before Departure

New Delhi: Big relief news for railway passengers! Indian Railways has changed the timing of preparing the reservation chart. Earlier the chart was prepared only 4 hours before the train departure, due to which waitlisted or RAC passengers had to wait till the last moment. Now in some zones this time has been increased to 10-12 hours. According to the reports to date, now the ticket status will be known 10 hours in advance. 

What is the new rule, and from when?

For the first time, the Railway Board made a major change in the chart preparation time. Earlier, from July 2025, there was a rule to prepare charts 8 hours in advance across the country—9 pm for trains starting before 2 pm. Now in December 2025, it has been further increased to 12 hours in some zones like West Central Railway. Aaj Tak's news of 17th December says that now the status will be available 10 hours in advance. This step was taken to reduce the problems of passengers coming from far away places.  

How much relief will waiting passengers get?

Earlier there was uncertainty in the last 4 hours—will it be confirmed or not? Now if you get more time, if the ticket is not confirmed, then you can make alternative plans—bus, flight, or another train. Especially beneficial for those boarding from intermediate stations. The second chart is still prepared 30 minutes earlier, but with the first chart arriving sooner, most of the clarity will be available earlier.

How and where to check the chart?

• IRCTC App/Website: Enter PNR, check status. When the chart is prepared, the seat/berth number will appear.
• At the station: Search for the name in the chart pasted on the platform or coach.
• Inquiry Counter: You can ask there.
• SMS/Email: Auto notification comes on confirmation.

Now it is easier to check online, as charts are prepared quickly.

What changes are coming next?

Railways is modernizing the PRS system—a new system by December 2025, which will handle 10 times more load. Aadhaar OTP is already mandatory in Tatkal. All this to make it passenger-centric. If you often travel by train, these changes will make your life easier. Check status first on your next trip, and travel tension-free!