Can We Change Boarding Station After Chart Preparation?
Many passengers book train tickets in advance but later realize they need to change their boarding station. This could be because of a change in travel plans or convenience. So, an important question is:
Can we change the boarding station after chart preparation?
The simple answer is no, it’s not allowed once the reservation chart is prepared. But let’s explore this topic in detail so you understand when and how you can change your boarding station.
What Is a Boarding Station?
The boarding station is the station where a passenger plans to board the train.
- You select your boarding station while booking the ticket.
- This station can be the same as your source station, or you can choose any intermediate station that comes after the source station.
Changing the boarding point allows flexibility if you want to catch the train from another stop on the route.
IRCTC Rules for Changing the Boarding Station
The Indian Railways, through IRCTC, allows passengers to change their boarding station under certain conditions.
When Can You Change the Boarding Station?
- You can change your boarding station only once after booking the ticket.
- You must make the change at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure of the train from the original boarding station.
Can We Change Boarding Station After Chart Preparation?
No, You Cannot Change Boarding After Chart Preparation
- Once the reservation chart is prepared (usually 4 hours before the train departs), the option to change your boarding station is closed.
- After chart preparation, the system locks in all final details, including boarding stations, seat assignments, and passenger lists.
If you missed changing your boarding point before this deadline, you cannot change it afterwards.
Why Is Boarding Station Change Not Allowed After Chart Preparation?
- Reservation Chart Finalization:
The chart includes final passenger lists and seat allocations. Making changes after the chart is prepared could lead to confusion, unauthorized seat occupation, or security issues. - Ticket Validity:
If you don’t board the train at your designated station and haven’t changed your boarding point before charting, your seat may be released to someone on the waiting list after the train leaves the original boarding station.
How to Change the Boarding Station (Before Chart Preparation)
If you want to change your boarding station, follow these steps before 24 hours of departure:
Step 1: Log in to IRCTC
Use the IRCTC website or Rail Connect app with your registered account.
Step 2: Go to “Booked Ticket History”
Find the ticket for which you want to change the boarding station.
Step 3: Click on “Change Boarding Station”
Select the option to change the boarding point.
Step 4: Select New Boarding Station
Choose the new boarding station from the dropdown list of available stations on the train route.
Step 5: Confirm the Change
Once confirmed, the new boarding station will be updated in your ticket details.
Things to Remember
- One-Time Change Only: You can change the boarding station only once, and only if you do it at least 24 hours before departure.
- No Change After Charting: After the chart is prepared, there is no option to change your boarding station.
- Boarding Rules:
- If you don’t board at your original boarding station and didn’t change it on time, the TT (Ticket Examiner) may mark you as “No Show”, and your seat could be given to someone on the waiting list.
What Happens If You Miss Boarding Without Changing?
- If you fail to board at the designated station and didn’t change your boarding point, your seat may be considered vacant.
- The Ticket Examiner can allocate your seat to a waiting list passenger after the train passes your boarding station.
- You may lose the right to travel, and no refund will be given.
Conclusion
You cannot change the boarding station after chart preparation.
If you need to change it, you must do so at least 24 hours before the train’s departure time from your original boarding station.
After chart preparation, your travel details are finalized, and no changes can be made. Always plan ahead and make changes within the allowed time to avoid problems during your journey.
For the latest information and rules, always check the IRCTC website or contact Indian Railways customer support.
Also Check:
• Can We Change Boarding Station in Tatkal Ticket?
• Can I Travel After Filing TDR? A Detailed Guide
• Can I Travel With RLWL Ticket? A Comprehensive Guide
• Can We Travel With a RAC Ticket? A Comprehensive Guide for Train Travelers
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