From October 1, 2026, there is going to be a major change regarding ticket checking for railway passengers. Central Railway will conduct a special ticket checking campaign from 1st October to 31st October 2026. During this period, ticket checking at trains and stations will be done more strictly than before. Special focus will be given to tickets taken in concessional fares, tickets booked under reservation quota and passengers traveling on pass or PTO.

Passengers have to carry their original ID proof along with the ticket during this campaign. If the required ID is not presented at the time of checking, the validity of the passenger’s ticket may be questioned. If more than one person is traveling on the same ticket, at least one passenger must have a valid ID at the time of checking. In case of non-presentation of ID, all passengers traveling on that ticket are deemed to be traveling without a valid ticket. In such case fine or other action may be taken under Railway Rules.

Special focus on concession and reservation quota people

Passengers traveling on concessional fares and passengers using fixed reservation quota will also be screened by the Railways. During checking, it will be seen whether the passenger is really eligible to avail that concession or quota or not.

It means that just showing the ticket is not enough. If necessary, the passenger will also have to show documents related to his identity, so that it is known that the ticket is booked for the right person.

ID is also required for pass and PTO holders

Railway employees and their family members frequently use travel facilities like e-pass and PTO. Eligible people get free travel facility through e-pass, while through PTO, tickets can be purchased at reduced fares.

From October 1, such passengers will also have to carry their original ID proof while travelling. Also, before travelling, it has to be checked whether the e-pass or PTO is properly converted into ‘authorisation for travel’. If the required procedures are not completed or a valid ID is not produced, the passenger may be prosecuted under the rules for traveling without a valid ticket.

Tickets without reservation will also be checked

This Central Railway campaign will not be limited to passengers with reserved tickets or concessions. Tickets without reservation will also be checked. If the checking staff is in doubt about any ticket, they can check the ticket information on the spot through TTE app. It aims to prevent the use of fake or altered tickets and misuse of reservation, concession or pass facilities.

What should passengers do?

For those traveling from October 1, it is most important to carry their original ID proof along with the ticket. If you are traveling through concession, reservation quota, e-pass or PTO, check the relevant documents and travel permission in advance.

Checking may become more stringent during the ticket checking campaign on Central Railway trains and stations in the month of October. Therefore, it would be better to check both the ticket and the ID before starting the journey.