IRCTC Chart: Everything You Need to Know About Indian Railways Reservation Chart Preparation

The IRCTC chart is an essential aspect of train travel in India, determining the final seat allocation and ticket status for passengers. If you have booked a waitlisted or RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) ticket, the IRCTC reservation chart can be a deciding factor in whether you get a confirmed seat. Understanding how the IRCTC chart preparation process works, when it is released, and how to check it can help passengers plan their journeys better.

This article provides a detailed insight into IRCTC chart preparation, the timing, how to check it, and common questions passengers have about seat allotment in Indian Railways.

What is the IRCTC Chart?

The IRCTC chart, also known as the Indian Railways reservation chart, is a final list that includes details of passengers who have been allotted confirmed seats. It also indicates RAC and waitlisted passengers who have not received confirmation.

The IRCTC chart helps passengers check their final seat numbers, coach positions, and whether their tickets have been confirmed, moved to RAC, or remain waitlisted.

IRCTC Chart Preparation Time

Indian Railways prepares the reservation chart twice before the train departs:

1. First Chart Preparation

The first IRCTC chart is usually prepared 4 hours before the train’s departure.
This chart includes the confirmed ticket holders and those whose waitlisted tickets have been upgraded to RAC or confirmed status.
Seats that remain vacant due to cancellations are also updated in this chart.

2. Second Chart Preparation

The second IRCTC chart is prepared 30 to 60 minutes before the train departs.
This is the final update, taking into account last-minute cancellations and any emergency quota allotments.
Passengers whose tickets were previously waitlisted but got confirmed will find their final seat details in this chart.

Factors Affecting IRCTC Chart Preparation Time

Several factors determine the exact timing of IRCTC chart preparation:

Train departure time (morning, afternoon, evening, or night)
Type of train (express, superfast, or premium trains like Rajdhani, Shatabdi, and Duronto)
Special quotas, including VIP, foreign tourist, and defense quotas
Seasonal demand and high travel periods

How to Check the IRCTC Chart Online?

Passengers can check the IRCTC reservation chart online through different methods:

1. IRCTC Website (www.irctc.co.in)

Log in to your IRCTC account.
Click on “Charts/Vacancy” under the train ticket section.
Enter your PNR (Passenger Name Record) number.
The system will display the final seat status and coach details.

2. Indian Railways NTES (National Train Enquiry System)

Visit https://enquiry.indianrail.gov.in.
Navigate to the “Reservation Chart” section.
Enter the train number and journey details.
Check the updated seat allotment status.

3. IRCTC Rail Connect App

Download the IRCTC Rail Connect app on your smartphone.
Log in and select the “Chart/Vacancy” option.
Enter PNR details to view the final seat status.

4. Checking the Physical Chart at Railway Stations

Reservation charts are displayed near the train coach or station notice boards.
Passengers can find their names, seat numbers, and coach positions on these printed charts.

Understanding the IRCTC Chart Status

Once the IRCTC chart is prepared, passengers can see different status updates for their tickets:

1. Confirmed (CNF)

The seat has been allocated, and the coach number is displayed.
No further changes unless upgraded to a higher class under automatic upgradation.

2. RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation)

The ticket is partially confirmed, and the passenger gets a side lower berth (shared seating during the day and a berth at night if available).
If other confirmed passengers cancel, the RAC ticket can be upgraded to a full berth.

3. Waitlisted (WL)

If the ticket is still on the waitlist after the final chart preparation, the passenger is not allowed to board the train.
The ticket amount is refunded automatically for online bookings.

4. Tatkal and Premium Tatkal Tickets

Tatkal tickets follow the same charting rules, but chances of confirmation depend on demand and last-minute cancellations.
Premium Tatkal (PT) tickets do not have a waitlist option; they are either confirmed or not issued.

5. Chart Not Prepared (CNF or WL Open)

If you check your PNR status and see “Chart Not Prepared,” it means that the first chart is yet to be generated.
The status may change in the second chart, so passengers should check again close to departure time.

Can You Get a Confirmed Ticket After Chart Preparation?

Once the IRCTC chart is finalized, confirmed seat allotments are fixed. However, here are some last-minute options for passengers who still need a ticket:

Vacant Berths After Chart Preparation
- Sometimes, certain seats remain vacant due to emergency quota cancellations or no-show passengers.
- These seats may be allotted at the railway station counter.
Current Booking
- Some trains allow “Current Booking” after the first chart is prepared, where last-minute vacant seats are sold at standard rates.
- Passengers can check for availability on the IRCTC website or ticket counters.
Upgradation Facility
- Indian Railways offers automatic upgradation where passengers are moved to a higher class if seats are available.

Tips for Passengers Regarding IRCTC Chart

Check PNR status frequently to track changes in ticket confirmation.
Opt for an alternative train if your ticket is still on the waitlist before the journey.
Book in advance to avoid last-minute uncertainty, especially during peak seasons.
Use Tatkal booking if you need a confirmed ticket at short notice.
Explore other quotas, such as ladies, senior citizen, or defense quotas, if applicable.

Conclusion

The IRCTC chart plays a crucial role in finalizing seat allocations for train travel in India. Passengers must be aware of the IRCTC chart preparation time, how to check it online, and what different ticket statuses mean. By understanding the process, travelers can plan better, reduce last-minute hassles, and enjoy a smooth journey. Whether checking your confirmed seat or exploring last-minute booking options, knowing how the IRCTC chart system works can make train travel more convenient and stress-free.