New Delhi: Generally, to travel by train you have to make reservation months in advance. For reservation, there are two ways that you can book. Tickets can be booked either through the reservation window or online. But what to do if you have to travel at the very last minute?
Most people consider 'tatkal' tickets as the only option for this. However, not many are aware that you can travel by train after purchasing a ticket from the platform.
How To Travel By Platform Ticket
There is no need to panic if you don't have a reservation. You can board a train with a platform ticket and can get it easily by going to the ticket checker. The person boarding the train with the platform ticket will have to contact the TTE immediately and get a current ticket made for his destination.
Know Rules Before Travelling
Sometimes you won't get a reserved seat when there's a full reservation but you'll be still allowed to travel in the train compartment. If you don't have a reservation, you will be fined Rs 250 along with the price of the destination ticket.
Fare Applicable From Station You Bought Platform Ticket
The platform ticket gives the passenger the right to board the train. The advantage of platform tickets is that the passenger's fare will be calculated by determining the station from where he/she has bought the platform ticket. The same station will be validated while charging the fare. The class (1AC, 2AC, 3AC etc) will also determine the total fare of the travel.