Travelling by train in India often involves uncertainty when it comes to partially confirmed or waitlisted tickets. With multiple passengers booking under one PNR, it can be confusing to know who can travel and who cannot. As per the latest regulations by Indian Railways, the rules have become stricter from May 2025 onwards, making it essential for passengers to understand the new norms before boarding. These changes affect those with partially confirmed train tickets, especially in sleeper and AC classes.

What Happens If Your Ticket Is Partially Confirmed?

A partially confirmed train ticket refers to a booking where some passengers on a single PNR have confirmed berths, while others remain on the waiting list. According to a report by The Economic Times, Indian Railways has now restricted waitlisted passengers from travelling in reserved coaches, even if they are on the same PNR as confirmed passengers. This rule applies to all bookings, including those made through IRCTC or over the counter at railway stations.

Indian Railways aims to reduce overcrowding and ensure comfort and safety for passengers with confirmed tickets. Earlier, ticket examiners sometimes allowed waitlisted passengers to board reserved coaches. However, this practice is no longer permitted. Those without a confirmed berth are required to travel only in unreserved coaches.

Refund Rules For Waitlisted And Partially Confirmed Tickets

The refund process depends on how the ticket was booked. According to IRCTC guidelines, if a waitlisted ticket is booked online and does not get confirmed after chart preparation, it is automatically cancelled and refunded. In contrast, tickets booked at counters must be cancelled manually at the station to get a refund.
 

For partially confirmed train tickets, where some berths are confirmed and others are not, the situation is different. If you choose not to travel, you must file a Ticket Deposit Receipt (TDR) with valid reasoning. Refunds for such cases are not automatic and depend on the railway’s discretion.

Consequences Of Travelling Without A Valid Ticket

Travelling in a reserved coach without a confirmed berth is a punishable offence. As per The Economic Times, this falls under Section 155 of the Railways Act, 1989. Passengers caught travelling without a valid reservation may face penalties, fines, or removal from the train.
Indian Railways has implemented these regulations to improve passenger experience and manage overcrowding in long-distance trains. Passengers are advised to check their ticket status after chart preparation and refrain from boarding reserved coaches if their seat is not confirmed.