No Train Seats for Diwali or Chhath? Here’s How IRCTC Can Confirm Your Ticket Fast!

Technology News: During major festivals like Diwali and Chhath, everyone wants to celebrate with their family at home. But getting confirmed train tickets during this time is often a challenge. Trains get fully booked weeks in advance, and the waiting list becomes very long. Many people worry about securing a confirmed ticket. If you are planning to travel home for these festivals, the IRCTC Vikalp scheme can help you get a confirmed seat and make your journey easier.

What is IRCTC’s Vikalp Scheme?

This facility is designed for passengers whose tickets remain on the waiting list. Through this feature, the railway tries to find empty seats on other trains running on the same route and gives passengers a confirmed ticket. The best part is that this facility is completely free and can be selected at the time of ticket booking. During festival seasons like Diwali and Chhath, when trains are fully booked, this feature gives passengers a reliable option to reach home. With just a few simple steps, you can convert your waiting ticket into a confirmed journey and celebrate the festival stress-free with your family.

How to Choose IRCTC’s Special Vikalp Scheme

1. Log in to the IRCTC website or mobile app.
2. Enter the source, destination, and travel date while booking the ticket.
3. If your ticket goes on the waiting list, select the “Vikalp Option” (Alternate trains).
4. You can select up to 7 alternate trains.
5. When seat allocation (charting) happens, the system can automatically shift you to an alternate train.
6. If the shift is successful, you will receive the new PNR details via SMS.

Important Points About the Vikalp Scheme

Choosing Vikalp is not mandatory. If you do not select it, your ticket will remain on the waiting list as usual.
If you get a confirmed ticket through Vikalp, modification is not allowed, meaning you cannot change your journey. Cancellation charges will apply if you cancel the ticket, just like a confirmed ticket. If the fare of the alternate train is less than your original train, no refund will be given for the difference. If you do not travel in the train you were shifted to, you can claim a refund by submitting a TDR (Ticket Deposit Receipt).