What is a Train Chart?
A train chart is a document that lists the passengers booked on a particular train journey. It includes details such as the passenger’s name, ticket number, berth/seat number, coach number, and waiting list status. The chart is prepared a few hours before the train’s departure. Earlier this chart used to be in physical format. Now in Digital india, it is present with TTE in tablet which contains passenger name details as well. The online public chart does not contains passenger specific details for their privacy and safety.
Now you can check in the homepage the reservation chart vacancy and coach position too with route details for your train.
Chart Preparation Time
Chart preparation time for Indian railway trains is around 4 hours before the scheduled departure time. The Final chart can be readjusted before 30 minutes of departure to allocate the vacant seats for WL passengers. For early morning trains, the chart is made the night before to make it easier for passengers to board at night.
Generally, the chart preparation time for different train types is as follows:
- Express and Mail Express Trains: 4-6 hours before departure.
- Passenger Trains: 2-3 hours before departure.
- Superfast Trains: 8-10 hours before departure.
- *Early Morning trains: In the night before after 8pm.
- Special Events: During peak travel seasons or special events, charts might be prepared earlier.
Why is it Important?
- Seat Confirmation: For passengers with confirmed tickets, the chart provides crucial details like your seat number and coach assignment. This information is essential for boarding the train at the correct platform and finding your designated seat.
- Waiting List Status: Passengers with waiting list tickets can eagerly check the chart to see if their ticket has been confirmed. As cancellations or no-shows occur, seats may become available, and waiting list passengers are allotted these vacant berths or seats based on their position on the waiting list.
- Boarding Information: The chart also provides vital information for boarding the train, such as the platform number and the coach position. This ensures a smooth and hassle-free boarding experience.
What Does the Chart Show?
A typical train chart includes the following information:
- Train Number: The unique identifier for the train.
- Date of Journey: The date on which the train is scheduled to depart.
- Boarding Station: The station from which the passenger is boarding the train.
- Class: The class of travel (e.g., First AC, Second AC, Sleeper).
- Passenger Details: The name, ticket number, berth/seat number, and coach number for each passenger. *Online charts do not show this individual details.
- Waiting List Status: The current waiting list position for passengers with tickets on the waiting list. * This is for TTE.
Understanding Chart Status
- Withdrawn: If the chart is withdrawn, it means it’s still being prepared and will be available shortly.
- Prepared: Once the chart is prepared, you can check your seat number and coach assignment.
- Cancelled: If the train is canceled, the chart will be invalid. You can check for alternative train options or request a refund.
- Rescheduled: If the train’s departure time or route is changed, the chart will be updated accordingly.
- Chart Not Prepared: If you try to check the chart before its prepared, you get this message.
Checking Chart Status
You can check the status of a train chart using the following methods:
- IRCTC Website: Visit the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) website and use the “irctc reservation chart vacancy” option.
- Indian Railways Passenger Reservation Enquiry: Go to the Indian Railways Passenger Reservation Enquiry website and check the “Seat Availability” section.
- Third-Party Apps: Several third-party apps offer train chart checking services.
Factors Affecting Chart Preparation
- System Issues: Technical glitches or system failures can sometimes delay chart preparation.
- Data Entry Errors: Incorrect or incomplete data entry can also cause delays.
- Heavy Traffic: During peak travel seasons, the system may experience high traffic, leading to slower processing times.
Tips for Checking Train Charts
- Check Regularly: If you have a waiting list ticket, check the chart frequently to see if a confirmed seat has been allotted.
- Use Reliable Sources: Ensure you use official websites or trusted third-party apps to check the chart.
- Be Patient: During peak travel times, the system may be slow, so be patient while checking the chart.
After chart preparation
- Can I book a ticket after chart preparation? Yes, you can book train tickets after the first chart preparation. After that, in a running train, you need to contact TT to allocate any empty seats.
- Can I cancel a ticket after the chart is prepared? You can only cancel before the chart is prepared. In the case of RAC or WL, you can cancel the ticket 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time, as they can be allotted during the re-finalization of the list.
- Traveling on a WL ticket: You can travel on a WL ticket only for the physical ticket. Note: Tickets created online (e-tickets) that are in waiting list are automatically cancelled before 30 minutes of departure!
By understanding train chart preparation time and status, you can effectively plan your train journey and stay informed about your ticket status.