Learn about RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) in IRCTC, how it works, and its benefits for train travelers. Find out what RAC means for your journey and ticket booking.
What is RAC in IRCTC?
RAC stands for Reservation Against Cancellation in the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) system. It is a type of train ticket status that offers certain benefits and ensures that a passenger gets to travel even if a confirmed berth is not available.
How RAC Works
- Initial Status:
- When you book a train ticket and the confirmed seats are full, you might receive an RAC status.
- RAC tickets are issued before moving to the waitlisted (WL) category.
- Seat Allocation:
- An RAC ticket ensures that the passenger gets a seat on the train, though it may not be a full berth initially.
- Two RAC ticket holders are typically allotted one side lower berth, allowing both passengers to sit during the journey.
- Upgrade to Confirmed Berth:
- As cancellations occur, RAC tickets may get upgraded to a confirmed berth.
- Passengers with higher RAC numbers get confirmed berths first, followed by those with lower numbers.
- Travel Guarantee:
- Unlike waitlisted tickets, RAC tickets allow passengers to board the train and travel to their destination.
Benefits of RAC
- Assured Travel: RAC ensures you can travel even if you don’t have a fully confirmed berth.
- Higher Chances of Confirmation: RAC tickets have a higher probability of being confirmed as cancellations happen.
- Comfort in Travel: Even without a confirmed berth, you have a seat to sit on during the journey.
Checking RAC Status
- Online: Check your RAC status on the IRCTC website or mobile app under the “Booked Ticket History” section.
- SMS Alerts: IRCTC sends SMS updates about your ticket status changes.
- Train Charts: Final reservation charts are prepared a few hours before departure, showing the latest status.
Conclusion
Understanding RAC in IRCTC can help you make informed decisions while booking train tickets. RAC offers the advantage of assured travel with the possibility of getting a confirmed berth closer to the journey date. Keep track of your ticket status for any updates and enjoy your journey with Indian Railways!
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