Indian Railways launches new token system for Tatkal tickets

Indian Railways has introduced a new token system for Tatkal train ticket bookings at reservation counters starting August 1, 2026. This system, primarily launched by the West Central Railway, aims to reduce crowding and make the booking process more transparent. It applies only to offline counter bookings and does not affect online bookings via the IRCTC website or app.

How the Token System Works

Passengers must collect a token during a specific time window and return to the counter during their assigned slot to book tickets. Tokens for AC Tatkal bookings are issued from 8:30 AM to 9:00 AM, and tokens for non-AC Tatkal bookings are issued from 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM. Initially, counters will issue 10 tokens for AC and 15 for non-AC bookings, though these numbers may change based on demand.

Token Categories and Rules

Tokens are divided into two types. Category A is for the passenger or their immediate family with a valid ID proving the relationship. Category B is for general or commercial requests and is processed after Category A. Tokens are non-transferable, and passengers must show a government-issued photo ID and provide all traveler details.

Impact on Passenger Flow

Saurabh Jain, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of Kota Division, stated that the system is meant to organize counter bookings and shorten waiting times. If seats are still available after all token holders have finished their bookings, walk-in passengers will be served on a first-come, first-served basis.