March 24, New Delhi – The Indian Railways has stated that “it is factually incorrect to claim that modified refund rules will burden passengers,” in a clarification issued by its official fact-checking unit.
Explaining the reforms, the Railways said, “as a step towards transparency,” the time for preparing charts has been increased from four hours to “9–18 hours before departure” to give passengers clarity on ticket confirmation.
On refund changes, it said the rules have been revised “with no additional cost payable,” stressing that the move is aimed at improving passenger experience.
The Railways added that the reforms “not only provide timely clarity” but also help “tighten action against illegal ticket agents.”
Passengers will also benefit from added flexibility. “Passengers will now be able to change their boarding station up to the last 30 minutes,” it said, adding that class upgrades will be allowed “subject to availability, up to 30 minutes before departure.”
Photo: File/Vande Bharat sleeper train