Traveling by train is an integral part of many people’s lives, especially in countries like India where the railway network is extensive and well-utilized. Reserve Against Cancellation (RAC) is a unique concept within the Indian Railways reservation system that provides a solution for passengers who have not been able to secure a confirmed seat but are still in the queue for one. In this article, we will explore all you need to know about RAC in trains, how it works, its pros and cons, and what passengers can expect when they opt for this type of reservation.
Understanding RAC in Trains
RAC is a type of ticket that allows you to board the train but does not guarantee you a full berth. It is issued to two passengers who share the same berth, but have separate seat numbers. One traveler gets the seat while the other gets the berth to sleep on during the journey.
How RAC Works
When a passenger books a ticket and all the confirmed seats are already taken, they are placed on the RAC list. As other passengers cancel their tickets or their tickets are upgraded to confirmed status, the RAC ticket holders move up the queue. Once a confirmed ticket is canceled, the first person on the RAC list moves into that seat, getting a full berth.
Pros of RAC Ticket
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Higher Chances of Confirmation: RAC ticket holders have a higher chance of getting a confirmed seat as compared to the waitlisted passengers.
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Boarding the Train: With an RAC ticket, you are assured of boarding the train, saving you from the uncertainty of whether you will get a seat or not.
Cons of RAC Ticket
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Sharing Berth: Passengers traveling on RAC tickets have to share their berths with another passenger, which can be inconvenient for some travelers.
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Limited Comfort: Getting half a berth may not be very comfortable for long journeys, especially if you are unable to adjust with your co-passenger.
Difference Between RAC and Waitlist
It’s crucial to understand the difference between RAC and waitlisted tickets. When you have a waitlisted ticket, you cannot board the train unless it gets confirmed. On the other hand, with an RAC ticket, you can board the train and occupy the seat provided to you.
Tips for RAC Ticket Holders
If you find yourself with an RAC ticket for your train journey, here are some tips to make your trip more comfortable:
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Carry a Blanket: As you might have to share your berth with another passenger, carrying a blanket can help you maintain some privacy.
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Communicate: It’s essential to communicate with your co-passenger to ensure a smooth journey.
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Carry Essentials: Ensure you have all the essential items like toiletries, snacks, water, and entertainment to make your journey more comfortable.
FAQs About RAC in Train
Q1: Can I travel with an RAC ticket?
A1: Yes, you can board the train with an RAC ticket.
Q2: How do I know my RAC status?
A2: You can check your RAC status on the official Indian Railways website or at the station.
Q3: What happens if my RAC ticket is not confirmed?
A3: If your RAC ticket is not confirmed, it will automatically be canceled and the fare will be refunded.
Q4: Can I cancel an RAC ticket?
A4: Yes, you can cancel an RAC ticket online or at the railway station.
Q5: Is there any chance of upgrading from RAC to a full berth?
A5: Yes, as confirmed tickets are canceled, RAC ticket holders move up to get a full berth.
Q6: Can I choose my co-passenger for the RAC seat?
A6: No, co-passengers are assigned by the Indian Railways system.
Q7: What if both passengers on an RAC ticket do not board the train?
A7: If both passengers do not board, the seat and berth can be given to other waitlisted passengers.
Q8: Is the coach and seat number mentioned on the RAC ticket?
A8: Yes, the coach and seat numbers are mentioned on the RAC ticket.
Q9: Are there any restrictions on RAC tickets for different train classes?
A9: RAC tickets are applicable in all classes of travel that offer the RAC facility.
Q10: Can RAC tickets be upgraded to a full berth before the journey?
A10: Upgrades from RAC to full berths are subject to availability and are done automatically by the system.
In conclusion, Reserve Against Cancellation (RAC) is a valuable option for passengers who want to secure a seat on a train even when all confirmed seats are booked. While it may have its limitations, it offers a higher chance of confirmation compared to the waitlist. By understanding how RAC works, its pros and cons, and following some tips, passengers can make the most of their journey even with an RAC ticket. Remember to plan ahead, communicate with your co-passenger, and carry all the essentials to ensure a comfortable train journey.
