How to Postpone a Train Journey Confirmed Through IRCTC

Travel plans may sometimes change unexpectedly, leading to a need to postpone a train journey. IRCTC, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation, does not allow direct changes to the date of a confirmed train ticket. Instead, you'll need to follow a specific procedure to rebook your journey. We'll guide you through the necessary steps and provide important considerations to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Cancellation of the Existing Ticket

To postpone a confirmed train journey through IRCTC, the first step is to cancel your existing ticket. If your ticket status is confirmed, you can proceed with the cancellation process through either the IRCTC website or mobile app.

Cancel the Existing Ticket: Log in to your IRCTC account and navigate to the cancellation section. Confirm the cancellation and pay any applicable cancellation fees.

Booking a New Ticket

Once your ticket is canceled, the next step is to book a new ticket for your desired date. Here’s how you can do this:

Search for Trains: Use the IRCTC website or mobile app to search for trains on your desired new date. Ensure the train you select is available and meets your travel requirements. Complete the Booking Process: Follow the prompts to complete your new booking. Pay any applicable fares and statutory charges.

Tatkal Scheme for Urgent Needs

If you need to travel on short notice, consider using the Tatkal scheme. This allows you to book tickets just one day before the journey. Although Tatkal tickets are booked on a first-come, first-served basis, it can be a practical solution if you need to travel at the last minute.

Online Customer Support and Refunds

In case you encounter any issues during the cancellation or booking process, you can contact IRCTC's customer support for assistance. It's also advisable to check the refund policy before canceling your initial ticket to understand the amount you may be refunded.

It's important to stay updated with the latest guidelines on the IRCTC website or app, as policies may vary and can change over time.

Additional Considerations

While IRCTC does not facilitate direct rescheduling through its online platform, you can visit a railway reservation window (PRS) to change your reservation. However, availability of the new date and time slots may vary, and you might need to pay additional time charges.

For changes and postponements, the initial ticket must be canceled, followed by rebooking, and you will need to pay the associated cancellation fees.

By following these steps, you can successfully postpone your train journey with IRCTC. This ensures your travel plans align with your schedule and preferences.