Vande Bharat: Ticket booking for Vande Bharat trains just got easier! Find out what the new 15-minute rule is..
- byShikha Srivastava
- 30 Jun, 2026
Vande Bharat Train Booking: If you frequently travel on the Vande Bharat Express, there is good news for you. Indian Railways has introduced a major change to enhance passenger convenience and ensure better utilization of vacant seats. Now, for several trains—including the Vande Bharat—vacant seats can be booked up to 15 minutes before the train's departure, even after the reservation chart has been prepared. This facility increases the chances of securing a ticket for last-minute travelers.

This system is particularly beneficial for passengers who need to travel unexpectedly or who could not secure a confirmed ticket initially. Let us look at the details of this new rule.
What is the new 15-minute rule? Previously, the facility to book tickets was restricted once the train's reservation chart was prepared. However, if seats remain vacant on the Vande Bharat or other eligible trains after the chart is prepared, passengers can now book them up to 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. The objective is to optimize the use of vacant seats and provide travel opportunities to more passengers.
How to book tickets? Passengers can book available seats via the IRCTC website, the IRCTC Rail Connect app, or authorized railway PRS (Passenger Reservation System) counters. However, this facility is available only when seats remain vacant after the reservation chart has been prepared.
Which trains offer this facility? This facility applies to trains requiring reservations—including the Vande Bharat Express—where seats remain available after the chart is prepared. However, the availability of this facility depends on the specific train and seat availability.
Things to keep in mind before traveling: Check seat availability, arrive at the station on time before departure, keep your identity proof handy while booking, and book tickets only through official railway platforms.
This new ticket booking rule from Indian Railways could prove to be very convenient for passengers. It will not only ensure better utilization of vacant seats but also make it easier for last-minute travelers to secure confirmed tickets. If you, too, are planning to travel by the Vande Bharat train, this facility could prove very useful for you.
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