As the festive season approaches, many travelers rush to secure confirmed train tickets to return to their hometowns for celebrations like Diwali and Chhath. The Indian Railways has introduced the Vikalp Scheme to ease the burden of waiting list tickets, offering travelers an opportunity to secure confirmed seats in alternative trains.
What is the Vikalp Scheme?
The Vikalp Scheme, initiated by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), is designed to assist passengers who cannot get a confirmed seat on their original booking. Under this scheme, passengers with waiting list tickets can be transferred to other trains, enhancing their chances of confirmation, although it does not guarantee a seat.
How Does the Vikalp Scheme Work?
When booking train tickets, passengers can opt for the Vikalp Scheme. If their ticket remains on the waiting list, it can be transferred to another train within 12 hours of the scheduled departure. If a seat is available in the alternative train, the ticket will be confirmed.
Steps to Utilize the Vikalp Scheme
- Log into the IRCTC Website or App: Start by visiting the IRCTC official website or opening the mobile app.
- Select Your Journey Details: Enter your travel date, destination, and the class of ticket you wish to book.
- Fill in Passenger Details and Make Payment: Complete the passenger information form and proceed with the payment.
- Choose the Vikalp Scheme Option: During the booking process, select the Vikalp Scheme option and choose an alternative train.
- Check PNR Status: After booking, monitor the PNR status to see if your ticket has been confirmed.
Key Features of the Vikalp Scheme
- Applicable Only for Mail and Express Trains: This scheme is specifically for passengers traveling on mail and express trains.
- No Additional Fees: Travelers can avail of this scheme without incurring any extra charges.
- No Return to Original Train: Once a passenger is transferred to an alternative train, they cannot revert to their original booking.
- Highly Beneficial During Peak Seasons: The Vikalp Scheme is especially useful during busy travel periods like Diwali and Chhath, where demand for train tickets surges.
Swiggy Joins the Journey: Food Delivery in Trains
In an exciting development, IRCTC has partnered with Swiggy to deliver food to passengers during their train journeys, enhancing the overall travel experience. This collaboration ensures that travelers can enjoy their favorite meals right at their seats, making train travel more convenient and enjoyable.
With the Vikalp Scheme, travelers can increase their chances of securing a confirmed seat during the festive rush. Make sure to utilize this option for a hassle-free journey home this Diwali Chhath!