Why Do Indian Trains Have Names Instead of Just Numbers?
When visiting or traveling in India, you might have noticed that Indian trains are not numbered but named. This practice, while unusual compared to other countries, serves several practical purposes and reflects the rich cultural and historical context of the Indian railway system.
Indian trains are named based on various themes. Some names are derived from famous historical events or people, while others are based on geographical locations, cultural artifacts, or even mythological figures. This naming convention helps passengers remember and recognize their preferred trains. Additionally, it adds an element of cultural significance and heritage to the traveling experience.
Why Do You Need to Check Train Cancellations or Delays Before Booking Tickets Online?
Cancellation or delay is a common occurrence, especially in the Indian railway system. Although train experts and transportation authorities strive to minimize disruptions, weather conditions, accidents, and other unforeseen events can severely impact the operational schedule. Therefore, it's essential to check the status of a train before booking tickets online.
When booking a train ticket online through the IRCTC website, you are required to fill in several details such as the starting station, destination station, preferred class of travel, and the date of travel. Based on this information, the website will provide you with a list of trains that are scheduled to run on your chosen date and route. Each train is listed with its unique number and name, along with the availability of seats or berths in your selected class of travel. Trains that are only offering waiting list tickets are also highlighted.
While the Indian Railways can provide some advance notice of cancellations or delays, especially in case of severe weather conditions, many cancellations or delays happen suddenly. Therefore, it's always advisable to cross-check the status of your preferred train before proceeding with the booking process. This ensures that you are not left stranded or facing last-minute inconveniences.
How Can You Check If a Specific Train Has Been Cancelled or Delayed Before Booking Tickets Online?
Checking the status of a train before booking tickets online can be done through various channels, including the IRCTC website, the Indian Railways app, and official announcements from the rail authorities.
1. IRCTC Website:
Visit the IRCTC website () and log in to your account. Once logged in, you can check the status of any train by using the train name or number. The website provides real-time updates on cancellations, delays, and availability of seats or berths.
2. Indian Railways App:
Download the official Indian Railways app on your smartphone. The app provides easy access to real-time information about train schedules, cancellations, and delays. You can use the app to check the status of any train before proceeding with your booking.
3. Social Media and Official Announcements:
Follow the official accounts of Indian Railways on various social media platforms. They often provide updates about train cancellations and delays, helping passengers plan their travel accordingly.
Conclusion
Understanding the naming convention of Indian trains and knowing how to check train cancellations or delays before booking tickets online can significantly enhance your travel experience. By being informed and proactive, you can avoid last-minute inconveniences and ensure a smoother journey. Always take a moment to verify the status of your preferred train to make the most of your online booking experience.
Note: While cancellation or delay can be caused by various factors, most of which are beyond human control, the importance of pre-booking checks cannot be overstated. Remember, planning ahead is key to a hassle-free journey.