Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh): Train passengers will now get to know their seat status earlier, thanks to a new decision by West Central Railway (WCR).
According to fresh guidelines issued by the Railway Board, the first reservation chart for all trains will now be prepared 8 hours before the train’s departure.
Earlier, this chart was made only 4 hours before departure.

This change will help passengers—especially those with waiting list or RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) tickets—get clarity about their ticket status well in time. Until now, many passengers from far-off districts faced confusion about whether to start their journey toward the station or not. This move is expected to reduce that uncertainty.
Passengers coming to Jabalpur station from districts like Mandla, Seoni, Dindori, Singrauli, and Damoh will benefit the most. With confirmation status available 8 hours earlier, they will now be able to plan their travel more confidently and comfortably.
Emergency Quota Simplified
The process for applying for Emergency Quota (EQ) tickets—used in medical or urgent situations—will now become easier. Passengers can apply a day in advance, bringing more transparency and saving time.

Chart Timings
For trains between 5 AM and 2 PM, the first chart will be ready by 9 PM the previous night.
For trains from 2 PM to 11:59 PM, the chart will be made 8 hours before departure.
For late night and early morning trains between 12 AM and 5 AM, charts will also be prepared 8 hours in advance.
Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of Jabalpur Division, Shashank Gupta, said the new system is in the interest of passengers. It will especially help those from remote areas by giving them early clarity about their journey and allow for better planning.
This new rule is expected to bring relief and convenience to thousands of travelers each day.