Can You Travel in Train with a TQWL Ticket? TQWL stands for Tatkal Quota Waitlist. The rules for traveling with a TQWL ticket depend on how the ticket was booked. Here’s a detailed explanation:
Can You Travel in Train with a TQWL Ticket?
1. E-Tickets (Online Booked Tickets):
- Not Allowed: If you have an e-ticket and it remains TQWL after the final chart preparation, you are not allowed to board the train.
- Automatic Cancellation: The waitlisted e-ticket will be automatically canceled, and a refund will be processed to your account.
- Reason: Boarding with a waitlisted e-ticket is prohibited because it is considered as not having a valid reservation for the journey.
2. Counter Tickets (Booked at Railway Station):
- Not Allowed: Generally, Tatkal tickets that remain waitlisted (TQWL) are not allowed for travel, even if booked from a railway station counter. Unlike other waitlist types, TQWL tickets have strict rules due to the high demand and short notice period associated with the Tatkal quota.
- Confirmation Needed: Only confirmed Tatkal tickets allow you to board the train. If your TQWL ticket does not get confirmed, you cannot travel with it.
Important Considerations
- Final Chart Preparation:
- The final reservation chart is typically prepared a few hours before the train’s departure.
- For most trains, it’s done about 4 hours before departure, and for special trains, it might be 30 minutes before departure.
- Boarding with a Waitlisted E-Ticket:
- Not Permitted: Boarding with a waitlisted TQWL e-ticket can result in fines or being asked to leave the train.
- Boarding with a Waitlisted Counter Ticket:
- Not Permitted: Traveling with a waitlisted TQWL counter ticket is generally not allowed. It’s important to check your ticket status before boarding.
Summary Table
| Ticket Type | Waitlisted Status | Boarding Allowed | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-Ticket | TQWL (after chart prep) | No | Automatic cancellation and refund |
| Counter Ticket | TQWL (after chart prep) | No | TQWL tickets are generally not allowed for travel |
Conclusion
- E-Ticket: Do not board the train if your e-ticket is TQWL after the final chart preparation. It will be automatically canceled.
- Counter Ticket: Traveling with a TQWL counter ticket is generally not allowed. Confirm your ticket status before boarding to ensure you have a valid reservation.
Understanding these rules can help you manage your travel plans better and avoid any inconvenience during your journey.