How much money is refunded on a waitlisted ticket?

Understanding Refunds on Waitlisted Train Tickets in India

In India, the railway system offers a waitlisted ticket option, providing passengers a chance to board even if the train is initially full. However, it’s crucial to understand that a waitlisted train ticket is not guaranteed. If your waitlisted ticket doesn’t get confirmed before the train’s departure, it’s automatically cancelled. This doesn’t mean you’re entirely out of luck, though. You are eligible for a refund, but with a processing fee deduction.

The Refund Process:

Once a waitlisted train ticket remains unconfirmed and is automatically cancelled, the refund process begins. The Indian Railways will process the refund, subtracting a standard processing fee. This fee currently stands at ₹60 per passenger. Therefore, the refund you receive will be the total ticket cost minus ₹60.

Example:

Let’s say you purchased a waitlisted train ticket costing ₹500. Since your ticket remained waitlisted and was cancelled, the refund you would receive is ₹500 – ₹60 = ₹440.

Important Considerations:

• Timing: The refund typically takes a few days to process and reflect in your account, depending on the payment method used. Keep an eye on your bank statement or payment platform for the credited amount.
• No Partial Refunds: There are no partial refunds for partially confirmed tickets. If any portion of your ticket remains waitlisted and unconfirmed at the time of departure, the entire ticket is considered cancelled and refunded according to the above process.
• Contacting Railways: If you have not received your refund within a reasonable timeframe (typically a week or two), it’s advisable to contact the Indian Railways customer service for assistance, quoting your ticket number and PNR.

Planning Ahead:

While waitlisted tickets offer a chance to travel, they come with the risk of cancellation. If your journey is time-sensitive or crucial, opting for a confirmed ticket is always the more reliable option. Consider booking in advance or exploring alternative travel arrangements to minimize the potential inconvenience of a waitlisted ticket cancellation. Understanding the refund policy ahead of time allows for better financial planning and reduced stress should your waitlisted ticket not get confirmed.