What is Vikalp in IRCTC? Vikalp, also known as the Alternate Train Accommodation Scheme (ATAS), is an initiative by the Indian Railways to provide confirmed accommodation to waitlisted passengers on alternate trains. If a passenger’s preferred train is fully booked and they are placed on a waiting list, Vikalp offers them a chance to get a confirmed seat on another train running on the same route.
What is Vikalp in IRCTC?
Key Features of Vikalp
Alternative Option:
- Passengers can opt for Vikalp while booking their tickets. It provides an alternative option to get confirmed accommodation on a different train.
Same Route:
- The alternate train offered will be on the same route and may have the same boarding and destination points.
No Additional Charges:
- There are no extra charges for opting for Vikalp. The fare difference between the original train and the alternate train, if any, is not charged to the passenger.
Multiple Choices:
- Passengers can choose Vikalp for multiple trains while booking their tickets. This increases their chances of getting a confirmed seat.
Confirmation Priority:
- Passengers who opt for Vikalp are given priority for confirmation on the alternate trains over passengers who have not opted for the scheme.
SMS Notification:
- Passengers are informed about their alternate train and seat confirmation through SMS or email.
How to Opt for Vikalp
While Booking a Ticket
Visit IRCTC Website or App:
- Log in to your IRCTC account on the website or app.
Search for Trains:
- Enter your journey details and search for trains.
Select Train:
- Choose the train you wish to book and proceed to the passenger details page.
Choose Vikalp Option:
- On the passenger details page, you will see the option to opt for Vikalp. Select the checkbox to opt for the scheme.
Complete Booking:
- Fill in the required details and complete the booking process.
After Booking a Ticket
Go to Booked Ticket History:
- Log in to your IRCTC account and go to the “Booked Ticket History” section.
Select Ticket:
- Choose the ticket for which you want to opt for Vikalp.
Opt for Vikalp:
- If you did not opt for Vikalp during booking, you might have the option to do so later from your booked ticket history (subject to availability).
Important Points to Note
- Eligibility: Only waitlisted passengers are eligible for Vikalp.
- Confirmation: Opting for Vikalp does not guarantee confirmation on an alternate train. It is subject to seat availability on alternate trains.
- Automatic Transfer: Once the alternate train is assigned, the passenger’s PNR is automatically transferred, and the original ticket becomes invalid.
- Cancellation and Refunds: If the alternate train option provided by Vikalp is not suitable, passengers can cancel their ticket and claim a refund as per the existing cancellation rules.
Summary
Vikalp is a beneficial scheme for waitlisted passengers, offering them an increased chance of traveling with a confirmed ticket by providing alternate train options. It enhances the flexibility and convenience of train travel by making use of available seats on other trains running on the same route.