Good News for RAC Passengers: Indian Railways has introduced a game-changing update for Reservation Against Cancellation (RAC) passengers, especially those traveling in Air-Conditioned (AC) coaches. This strategic shift aims to elevate comfort, address persistent passenger concerns, and bring parity between RAC and confirmed ticket holders.
For decades, RAC passengers have found themselves caught in a grey zone—having paid the full fare but receiving only partial travel privileges. With this new development, Indian Railways is ensuring RAC travelers finally get the dignity and service they deserve.
Good News for RAC Passengers
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Policy Update | RAC passengers in AC coaches to receive individual sealed bedroll kits |
| Includes | 2 bedsheets, 1 blanket, 1 pillow, and 1 towel |
| Reason | Ensures equal treatment and comfort for fare-paying RAC travelers |
| Scope | All major trains with AC coaches; nationwide rollout in phases |
| New Rule | Waitlisted passengers barred from Sleeper & AC coaches (effective May 1, 2025) |
| Official Link | Indian Railways Official Website |
The new Indian Railways policy for RAC passengers is a significant leap forward in ensuring fair treatment and comfort. With sealed bedroll kits, passengers finally enjoy a cleaner, more comfortable journey, aligning services with ticket costs. The added enforcement against waitlisted passengers ensures a smoother ride for all. This reflects Indian Railways’ renewed focus on customer experience and operational efficiency.
Why This Change Matters: A Look at RAC Passenger Experience
Traveling with an RAC ticket means you have a seat but not a full berth. In AC classes like 2AC and 3AC, passengers often have to share a berth, usually the side lower one. Until now, they also had to share bedding – often leading to inconvenience, hygiene concerns, and friction.
Indian Railways recognized that despite paying full ticket fare, RAC passengers were underserved. This update now offers each RAC traveler a sealed bedroll kit, ensuring:
- Personal hygiene
- Greater comfort
- Conflict-free sharing of space
What Exactly Is Included in the New Bedroll Kit?
Each RAC passenger will now receive:
- Two fresh bedsheets
- A warm blanket
- A clean towel
- A soft pillow
These kits will be distributed immediately by the coach attendant once passengers are onboard and reach their seats. This will ensure timely service and comfort from the beginning of the journey.
According to MySandesh, “The kit will be fully sealed to ensure cleanliness and safety.”
The Bigger Picture: Indian Railways’ Focus on Passenger Equality
This change is part of a broader initiative by Indian Railways to:
Standardize Onboard Services
Whether a ticket is RAC or confirmed, the fare remains the same. Hence, services should reflect that.
Avoid Onboard Disputes
Often, passengers argue over limited bedding or berth sharing. Providing individual bedrolls neutralizes these disputes.
Improve Passenger Satisfaction
Satisfied passengers = better brand image for Indian Railways. This reform is a step toward world-class railway standards.
Enforcement Begins: Waitlisted Passengers Cannot Board Sleeper & AC Coaches
Starting May 1, 2025, Indian Railways has also implemented a new rule prohibiting waitlisted passengers from boarding AC or Sleeper coaches unless their ticket is confirmed.
This initiative aims to:
- Minimize crowding
- Improve berth availability for RAC and confirmed passengers
- Enforce compliance to booking norms
Anyone found violating this rule will face penalties or removal from the train at the next station.
Good News for RAC Passengers: How This Affects You: A Step-by-Step Guide for RAC Travelers?
Step 1: Book RAC Ticket via IRCTC or Railway Counters
Ensure your ticket class is AC and you are assigned RAC status (usually indicated as RACXX).
Step 2: Check Your Coach & Berth Number
You’ll be assigned a shared berth in the side lower section. This remains standard.
Step 3: Collect Bedroll Kit After Boarding
Contact the coach attendant as soon as you board. They will hand over a sealed bedroll kit to each RAC passenger.
Step 4: Share Berth, Not Bedding
Enjoy hygienic travel with your own set of bedding even though the berth may be shared.
Step 5: Follow New Boarding Rules (From May 2025)
Avoid traveling if you’re on the waiting list. You may face a fine or removal if caught.
Real-World Example: Rajesh’s Journey From Delhi to Mumbai
Rajesh, a corporate employee from Delhi, had booked an RAC ticket to Mumbai for a business trip. Previously, he had to either carry his own bedsheet or share with a stranger, making overnight travel uncomfortable.
Last week, under the new policy, Rajesh received a sealed bedroll kit from the attendant. He used the two sheets to create a clean sleeping surface and wrapped himself comfortably in the blanket.
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FAQs on Good News for RAC Passengers
Q1. What is an RAC ticket?
A Reservation Against Cancellation (RAC) ticket allows you to board the train and share a berth with another RAC passenger. If someone cancels, you may get a full berth.
Q2. Will every RAC passenger get a bedroll now?
Yes. All RAC passengers in AC coaches will receive individual sealed bedroll kits.
Q3. Is there any extra charge for the bedroll?
No. It is included in your AC ticket fare.
Q4. When will this be implemented nationwide?
Implementation has begun on major routes and will expand nationwide over the next few months.
Q5. What if I board with a waitlisted ticket after May 1, 2025?
You may be fined and asked to leave the coach. Always travel with a confirmed ticket.
