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Indian Railways: Getting a seat after chart preparation is not entirely dependent on luck. By checking in at the right time you can get a full berth. With the help of platforms like IRCTC and NTES, you can see real-time vacant seats and can travel comfortably even at the last minute.
Indian Railways: Not getting a confirmed seat in the train is the biggest tension of the passengers. Many times people leave the journey after seeing WL and RAC, whereas the truth is that even after the chart is prepared, many seats are found vacant. Just need to know the method. After the chart is prepared, the seats which are missed or canceled can be booked within a few minutes. So if your ticket is waiting or you want to travel suddenly, then this information is icing on the cake for you.
Why are there vacant seats even after chart preparation?
Many passengers cancel their tickets just before the journey, some people do not board and some seats remain vacant even after their waiting list is confirmed. Railways shows these remaining seats in the system as AVAILABLE or RELEASED BERTH. Anyone can book these seats at the last minute, provided you check early.
How to check vacant seats after chart preparation?
1. On IRCTC website or app
- Go to IRCTC.
- Enter your train number/name in the Trains section.
- Chart Not Prepared/Chart Prepared will appear.
- After the chart is created, click on Available Seats After Charting.
- Seats will be visible coach-wise. You will also know which berth is vacant.
2. On NTES App
Like IRCTC, Railways’ National Train Inquiry System (NTES) app also provides real-time data.
- Open the app.
- Enter train details.
- Select Seat Availability After Charting option.
3. Chart board at the station
Coach numbers and seat positions are written on the chart near the platform at the station.
In this, available seats can be booked immediately.
4. By asking TTE
Often TTE has some vacant seats even after boarding. If you don’t see a seat in the chart, then board the train and politely ask the TTE. Many times TTE allots vacant berths on first-come, first-served basis.
These tips are beneficial for last-minute travel
- Be sure to check on IRCTC 1 hour before train departure.
- After making the chart, check it again continuously every 10–15 minutes.
- The chances of getting a berth increase significantly for those with RAC tickets.
- Don’t forget to talk to the TTE after reaching the station.
