Intruduction:
The IRCTC Vikalp (Optional Accommodation Scheme) is an initiative by the Indian Railways that aims to provide alternate travel options to waitlisted passengers. Here is the full information about the Vikalp scheme:
Key Features of IRCTC Vikalp Scheme:
- Alternate Accommodation: The Vikalp scheme provides waitlisted passengers the option to get confirmed accommodation in another train if their original train has no available seats.
- No Extra Cost: Passengers who opt for the Vikalp scheme will not be charged any additional fare. The original ticket fare remains applicable, even if the passenger is shifted to a premium train like Rajdhani, Duronto, or Shatabdi.
- Optional Selection: Passengers can choose whether or not to opt for the Vikalp scheme at the time of booking their ticket on the IRCTC website or mobile app. If they do not want to take advantage of this scheme, they can opt out.
- Multiple Trains and Routes: Under the scheme, passengers can be accommodated in another train running on the same route, which could be on the same day or one day before/after the booked train, depending on availability.
- Class and Quota: Passengers can be shifted to trains of the same class they booked (like sleeper, 3AC, etc.) or even upgraded to a higher class. However, there is no guarantee that they will be shifted to a train of the same class.
- PNR Status: If the passenger is allotted a berth in another train through the Vikalp scheme, their PNR status will change to “Confirmed.” However, if they do not get confirmed accommodation, their original waitlist status will apply.
- No Choice of Train: Once a passenger opts for Vikalp, they cannot choose a specific train. The system randomly assigns a train based on seat availability.
- Cancellation: If a passenger chooses the Vikalp scheme and gets accommodation in an alternate train, the rules of the new train will apply. However, if the passenger chooses to cancel the ticket after being allotted an alternate train, cancellation charges will be levied as per the new train’s cancellation policy.
- Mandatory for Boarding: If a confirmed berth is allotted in an alternate train under Vikalp, the passenger must board the new train, as the original waitlisted berth becomes invalid.
- Availability in Selected Routes: The Vikalp scheme is available on selected routes and trains, and not on all train services.
How to Opt for the Vikalp Scheme:
- At the time of booking: While booking your ticket on the IRCTC website, the option to opt-in for the Vikalp scheme will be available. You need to select “Yes” to use this scheme.
- Post-booking: If a passenger wants to opt for the scheme after booking, they can do so by logging into their IRCTC account and selecting the “Opt Vikalp” option in the booked ticket history section.
Advantages of Vikalp Scheme:
- Helps in reducing travel disruptions for passengers with waitlisted tickets.
- No extra charges are levied, even if the passenger gets an upgrade.
- Increases chances of confirmed travel for waitlisted passengers.
Disadvantages/Limitations:
- Passengers do not get to choose the train for alternate accommodation.
- Once allocated to a new train, they must travel on it; they cannot continue with the original train booking.
- The scheme is currently available only on specific routes and trains.
Example of How Vikalp Works:
Suppose you booked a ticket on Train A, but the status is waitlisted. If you opt for Vikalp, the system will check for available seats in other trains running on the same route (such as Train B or Train C). If a confirmed seat is available on any of these alternate trains, you will be automatically allotted a berth.
This scheme provides flexibility and higher chances of confirmed travel to waitlisted passengers while making better use of available accommodation on Indian Railways.
