7 Indian Railway Terms Every Traveller Must Know Before Booking

Travelling by train in India is an experience like no other. From bustling stations to scenic routes, the journey is as memorable as the destination. However, for first-time travellers or even regular commuters, the railway terminology can often feel confusing. Whether you are booking tickets online or checking your reservation status, understanding these terms can save you time and stress. Indian Railways uses a mix of abbreviations and codes that hold specific meanings, and knowing them can make your travel smoother. So, before you plan your next trip, here are some railway terms that every traveller should be familiar with.

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Here Are 7 Must-Know Indian Railway Terms For A Hassle-Free Journey:

1. RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation)

RAC means you have a reserved seat but not a full berth. You can sit and travel, but you will only get a sleeping berth if someone cancels their ticket. It's a halfway status between confirmed and waiting list, and often gets upgraded to confirmed before the journey. If two RAC passengers share a berth, one gets the lower seat during the day and both adjust at night. It's a good option if you want to avoid being completely waitlisted.

2. GNWL (General Waiting List)

This is the most common waiting list category for tickets booked from the originating station of a train. GNWL tickets have the highest chances of confirmation compared to other waiting lists, especially if booked well in advance. The confirmation depends on cancellations from the starting point, so early booking is key. If you see GNWL while booking, your chances are better than other codes.

3. TQWL (Tatkal Quota Waiting List)

When you book under the Tatkal scheme and don't get a confirmed seat, your ticket falls under TQWL. These tickets have lower chances of confirmation compared to GNWL because Tatkal seats are limited and in high demand. Tatkal bookings open just a day before travel, so competition is fierce. If your TQWL status doesn't confirm, the ticket gets automatically cancelled and refunded.

4. UTS (Unreserved Ticketing System)

UTS refers to tickets issued for unreserved travel, usually for short-distance journeys. These tickets can be purchased through UTS counters or mobile apps, and they allow you to travel in general compartments without a reserved seat. It's ideal for spontaneous trips or local commutes. However, during peak hours, these coaches can get extremely crowded, so plan accordingly.

5. E-Catering

E-Catering is a service that allows passengers to order food online and have it delivered to their seat during the journey. You can choose from a variety of restaurants and cuisines through the IRCTC app or website. It's a great way to enjoy fresh meals instead of relying on pantry food, especially on long trips. This service is available at major stations and offers options like regional dishes, fast food and even desserts.

6. LHB Coaches

LHB stands for Linke Hofmann Busch, a German technology used in modern Indian Railways coaches. These coaches are safer, more comfortable, and designed for higher speeds compared to older ICF (Integral Coach Factory) coaches. They also reduce jerks during travel, making your journey smoother and quieter. Most premium trains like Rajdhani and Shatabdi now use LHB coaches, and they are gradually replacing older designs across the network.

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7. Vikalp Scheme

The Vikalp scheme offers passengers the option to travel in an alternate train if their original booking is waitlisted. It's free of cost and helps reduce congestion on popular routes. While you may not get your preferred train, it ensures you still reach your destination without last-minute stress. It's a smart choice for flexible travellers and can be opted for during ticket booking on IRCTC.

Understanding these railway terms can make your travel planning much easier and less stressful. The next time you book a ticket, you'll know exactly what those abbreviations mean and how they affect your journey. Happy travelling!