Indian Railways: Indian Railways is now making it mandatory to apply a day in advance for Emergency Quota (EQ) tickets. Read the full report to know which trains will be applicable for these new rules and at what time.
Emergency Quota ticket booking new rule: Indian Railways has changed the rules related to Emergency Quota (EQ), so that it becomes easier for passengers to get seats in case of sudden travel needs. Now it will be necessary to apply for EQ ticket within the stipulated time one day before the journey. This will also make it easier to make charts and run trains.
What are the new rules for emergency quota?
According to the new circular of the Ministry of Railways, now if a passenger wants a seat in Emergency Quota (EQ), then he will have to apply one day before his journey.
If your train departs between 12 midnight and 2 pm (14:00), then your emergency quota request should reach the EQ cell by 12 noon on the previous day.
If the train departs between 2:01 pm and 11:59 pm, then the request for EQ must be submitted by 4 pm on the previous day.
Keep in mind, the request sent on the same day as the train will not be accepted. That is, now there is no hope of getting a ticket on the last minute request. If the train is on Sunday or holiday, then send the application on the previous working day only.
How does EQ work?
The emergency quota is mainly reserved for government officials, MPs, HOR holders etc. If there is no request for them, then other passengers like medical emergency, job interview, family needs are given priority. This process is based on seniority and requirement.
Some big changes in railways from July 2025, know what’s new?
Reservation chart will now be made earlier
The Railway Board has decided that now the reservation chart of trains will be made 8 hours before the train leaves. If your train leaves before 2 pm, then its chart will be prepared at 9 pm the day before. This will let the passengers know the waitlist status in advance and it will be easier to plan.
2. Time limit on ticket booking by agents
From July 1, 2025, the Railways has implemented the rule that authorized agents will not be able to book tickets at certain times, so that common passengers can get a chance first and ticket blocking is reduced.
3. OTP is now necessary on Tatkal tickets
From July 15, 2025, verification with OTP (One Time Password) will now be necessary for all Tatkal tickets booked through railway computerized counters or authorized agents. This will stop fake booking.
4. Aadhaar is now necessary to book tickets from IRCTC
From July 1, 2025, if you want to buy Tatkal tickets from IRCTC’s official website or mobile app, you will have to verify your Aadhaar number first. Tickets will not be available without Aadhaar authentication.
Who will benefit?
A clear timeline will be ensured for those seeking last minute seats. People will be able to plan their future travel by knowing the waiting list clearance quickly. There will be extra clarity in emergency quota application during public festivals and holidays. An effort to prevent fraud in Tatkal, ticket booking will become easy and transparent.
