Introduction of premium tatkal quota with dynamic pricing a success: Railways

In some cases, the ticket rates doubled under the system that was introduced to cash in on the festive rush this month and eliminate touts, who were observed to be charging a premium in the peak season.

The system came into effect on October 3.

“The fares have risen by 100 per cent over the past few days because of the festive rush,” a Western Railway official said. “On non-peak days, people can find vacant berths four to five hours before departure.”

Tatkal bookings open a day in advance, at 10 am at booking offices and on e-ticketing websites.

On WR, nine trains follow the system and on CR, five trains.

“Trains like Howrah Mail, Mahanagari Express, Dadar-Chennai Express have seen 100% increase in fare,” a CR official said.”

In Mumbai-New Delhi Rajdhani Express, the fares for II and III tier AC touched Rs 7,200 and Rs 6,000 in the festive rush. Borivli resident Rajesh Vyas said passengers did not benefit much with the system as touts were still doing brisk business, but Kandivli resident Anjali Menon said it was a good move.