New Delhi, February 15: Indian Railways has introduced stricter rules for passengers with reserved tickets while also rolling out an upgraded cleanliness drive for long-distance trains. The new measures aim to improve passenger convenience, transparency, and onboard hygiene across the rail network.

Reserved Seat Rules: What Has Changed?

Passengers with reserved tickets must now board strictly from the boarding station mentioned on their ticket. If they fail to do so, their seat will be immediately reassigned to a waiting list or RAC passenger.

Earlier, Traveling Ticket Examiners held vacant seats for up to two stations. However, with the introduction of the Hand Held Terminal system, seats are now updated in real time. Once reassigned, passengers receive an SMS notification. This alert is sent only to the mobile number entered during booking. Those who book tickets through agents should ensure their personal mobile number is provided to avoid missing important updates. Indian Railways New Trains: Railway Ministry Rolls Out TAG 2026 With 122 New Trains and Speed Upgrades for 549 Existing Services; Check Details.

Passengers who wish to change their boarding station must do so at least 24 hours before departure via the IRCTC website or mobile app.

Cleanliness Drive in General Coaches

Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that general coaches in long-distance trains will now be maintained at standards comparable to first-class coaches. UTS Ticketing App to Be Discontinued From March 1 As Indian Railways Pushes Passengers to RailOne App for Ticket Booking.

In the first phase, 80 long-distance trains will be covered within six months. Dedicated cleaning staff will sanitize cabins, toilets, and garbage bins every one to one-and-a-half hours. Additionally, responsibilities such as linen management and housekeeping will now be handled by a single agency to improve accountability and efficiency.

Expansion of Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals

The minister also confirmed that 124 Gati Shakti cargo terminals will be developed over the next three years across 18 states and Union Territories. These terminals aim to strengthen multi-modal connectivity, reduce logistics costs, and further enhance India’s cargo handling capacity.

What This Means for Passengers

The updated system ensures:

• Faster reassignment of unused reserved seats

• Reduced disputes between passengers

• Improved hygiene in general coaches

• More efficient rail and cargo operations

Passengers are advised to board on time or update their boarding station in advance to avoid losing their reserved seat.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 15, 2026 02:08 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).