TQWL, or Tatkal Quota Waitlist, is a specific status in Indian Railways’ ticketing system that applies to tickets booked under the Tatkal scheme, intended for last-minute travel needs. Tatkal booking opens one day before the train departs, allowing passengers to book tickets at short notice. However, unlike the General Waitlist (GNWL), the TQWL has a lower priority for confirmation. If all available Tatkal tickets are sold out, passengers are placed on the TQWL, and confirmation of their tickets depends solely on cancellations by other Tatkal travelers.
When TQWL appears on your ticket, it indicates a relatively lower chance of confirmation, as this status is only upgraded if other Tatkal ticket holders cancel their bookings. If the TQWL number is low, there might be a slight chance of confirmation, but it’s always wise to consider backup travel arrangements if the waiting list number is high.
Tips for Booking Tatkal Tickets Successfully
Securing a Tatkal ticket requires planning, as tickets are limited and sell out quickly. Here are some strategies to improve your chances:
Log in Early: Make sure you’re logged in on the IRCTC platform a few minutes before the Tatkal booking window opens to avoid server delays or technical issues.
Prepare Passenger Details: Keep personal and travel information ready for easy entry during booking. This minimizes delays that could cost you a ticket.
Payment Ready: Have your payment method handy—whether it’s a card or net banking—to ensure a swift transaction at checkout.
Use Multiple Accounts: Creating multiple IRCTC credentials gives you more options in case of technical difficulties, increasing your chances of success.
Key Features of TQWL on IRCTC
Dedicated Quota: TQWL operates under its own quota, separate from GNWL, meaning your ticket’s confirmation depends exclusively on Tatkal ticket cancellations.
Limited Ticket Availability: The number of seats under Tatkal is small, so TQWL confirmations are more restricted than those under the general booking system.
No RAC for TQWL: For TQWL, the ticket remains on the waitlist until it’s confirmed or cancelled due to lack of cancellations, with no provision for RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) status.
How to Check TQWL Status on redRail
To track your TQWL ticket status, use the following steps on the redRail app or website:
Open redRail’s platform and log in with your IRCTC details.
Enter your 10-digit PNR, which can be found on the top left of your train ticket.
Click “Check Status” to see your current TQWL status.
For last-minute train travel, TQWL can be a viable, if uncertain, option. By understanding the unique nature of TQWL—its lower priority, dependence on cancellations, and lack of RAC—you can better manage your expectations when choosing Tatkal bookings. Use the redRail app or website to simplify the booking and status-checking process, keeping your travel plans flexible.
Leave a Reply