Indian Railways has introduced updated guidelines regarding ticket bookings for children, bringing clarity for parents who frequently travel with young kids. The new rules aim to simplify the process, avoid confusion at stations, and ensure that families book tickets correctly based on their child’s age and travel requirements.
What the New Child Ticket Rule Says
Under the revised system, Indian Railways has redefined how tickets should be booked for children between specific age groups. Children below a certain age can still travel free of cost, but they will not be provided with a separate berth unless a full ticket is purchased. This update ensures fair use of available berths while keeping travel affordable for families.
Free Travel but No Berth for Young Children
As per the updated rule, children below the free-travel age limit can travel without a ticket, but only if they do not require a separate seat or berth. Parents opting for a berth for their child must book the ticket at full fare. This adjustment is meant to ensure that berths are allocated to passengers who need them most, especially during peak travel seasons when demand is high.
Children Eligible for Full Ticket Booking
For kids who fall into the payable age group but do not require a berth, parents can choose to book a ticket at a reduced fare. However, if a separate berth is desired for the child, the booking must be done at the full adult fare. This gives families the flexibility to decide based on their comfort and budget.
Why Railways Updated the Child Ticket Rules
The new rules were introduced to streamline ticket allotment and avoid misuse of berths. Many berths were reportedly being blocked for children who did not actually need them, causing inconvenience for adult passengers. The revised policy ensures that all berths are utilized more efficiently while still giving families options for their children.
How This Affects Families
Parents can now plan their journey with clearer information. The rules help them decide whether to opt for a full-fare berth for their child or let the child travel without one. This clarity reduces last-minute confusion during online booking or at railway counters and allows families to tailor their travel experience.
A Step Toward Better Passenger Management
The updated child ticket rules reflect Railways’ broader effort to make the booking system fairer and more transparent. With increasing demand for train travel, these changes aim to create a balanced system where berths are distributed more effectively while keeping affordability intact for families.