‘The Times of India’ brings you ‘Hack of the Day’ — a new weekday-series of quick, practical solutions to everyday hassles. Each hack is designed to save you time, money or stress, using tools and features within your reach — from government websites to everyday apps. In simple words it is: Simple fixes for smarter living.
Earlier reporting noted: PAN-Aadhaar Deadline Nears: How To Link Before December 31 Or Risk Inoperative PAN From Next Year Earlier reporting noted: Here’s how to check PAN-Aadhaar link status Earlier reporting noted: Step 1: Go to the Income Tax e-filing portal. Whether you’ve booked online through IRCTC or at a railway counter, your ticket carries important codes that determine whether you’ll get a confirmed seat, be placed on a waiting list, or travel under reservation against cancellation. CNF (Confirmed): Your seat/berth is confirmed. WL (Waiting List): Your ticket is not yet confirmed. If not confirmed, it gets cancelled automatically and refund is processed.
Train travel in India is convenient and affordable, but for many passengers, understanding the status of their train ticket can feel confusing. Here’s a simple guide to decoding your ticket status like a pro. The coach and berth number will be mentioned on your ticket. RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation): You are guaranteed to travel, but you’ll share a berth with another passenger. If cancellations occur, RAC tickets may get upgraded to full berth confirmation. If it remains WL after charting, you cannot board. GNWL (General Waiting List): The most common waiting list for long-distance trains starting from your boarding station. Higher chances of confirmation compared to other WL types. PQWL (Pooled Quota Waiting List): Applies to intermediate stations. Lower probability of confirmation compared to GNWL. TQWL (Tatkal Waiting List): Waiting list under Tatkal quota. RLWL (Remote Location Waiting List): For passengers boarding from smaller stations en route. Confirmation chances are usually lower.
You can only travel if your status moves to RAC or CNF before the chart is prepared.
How to check your ticket status online
PNR Status Check : Enter your 10-digit PNR number on IRCTC, NTES app, or SMS service (send PNR <your number> to 139). Check status closer to chart preparation (usually 4 hours before departure) for final confirmation. IRCTC Website/App: Log in and check under “Booked Tickets History. Railway Enquiry Counters: Provide your PNR number to staff for live updates. Always note your PNR number – it’s the key to tracking your ticket status. Tatkal bookings have faster movement but limited seats—book early. RAC tickets are safer than WL, as they guarantee travel.