Introduction
When traveling by train, it's common to encounter situations where there are uncertainties and clarifications needed about your ticket booking status. This article aims to address a specific query related to train ticket booking through the PNR (Passenger Name Record) status, where a ticket is marked as 'PQWL 24' but shows as 'Confirmed' in the status without mentioning the coach and seat numbers. We will explore why this happens and what it means for your journey.
Overview of the Scenario
In 2022, during a trip from Chennai to Sivakasi and back, the initial train booking for the onward journey was marked as 'PQWL 2627' on the 31st of July, and the return ticket booking on the 8th of August was marked as 'PQWL 910' in the Nellai Express from Madurai to Chennai. The 'PQWL' designation indicated that the tickets were in the wait list, and passengers would receive confirmation closer to the actual travel date.
Despite the initial 'PQWL' status, the return ticket eventually showed as 'Confirmed' in the status. However, there were no details regarding the coach number and seat number, which often leads to confusion among travelers. This article will help decipher the meaning of such statuses and clarify what they imply for your travel itinerary.
Understanding PNR Status and Confirmed Ticket
Current Status VS Booking Status
It's important to differentiate between the current PNR status and the booking status. While the booking status shows the original status of the queue, the current status reflects the latest update. In the case of the return ticket, if the current status shows 'Confirmed', then the ticket is indeed confirmed, and the ticket will have a seat number allocated shortly before the departure of the train.
A 'Confirmed' status in the current PNR status usually means that the reservation has been finalized, and you will receive your seat and coach numbers during the charting process, which typically takes place about 4 hours before the scheduled departure time. This process ensures that all passengers are assigned specific seats, facilitating smoother travel.
Wait List (WL) and Its Impact on Ticket Confirmation
Will PWL Tickets Get Confirmed?
The likelihood of a wait list (PWL) ticket getting confirmed varies. Generally, tickets marked as PQWL or WL during booking are less likely to get confirmed, especially in crowded destinations. However, last-minute bookings sometimes do get confirmed, but this is not a guarantee.
For traditional waiting lists (WL), the allocation of seats only occurs during the charting process, about 4 hours before the train's departure. This is when your seat and coach number will be finalized and displayed in the PNR status. Until then, the coach and seat numbers are not available.
Greneral Wait List (GNWL)
In cases where the ticket status is 'GNWL', you can book the ticket with confidence. 'GNWL' stands for General Waiting List, and these tickets are more likely to be confirmed closer to the departure time. Therefore, if your ticket is 'GNWL', it's advisable to proceed with your booking.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if your current PNR status shows your ticket as 'Confirmed', then your ticket is indeed confirmed. You can embark on your journey with confidence. No need to worry about the absence of coach and seat numbers; they will be assigned during the charting process. Plan your travel accordingly, and ensure you're prepared for departure regardless of the initial booking status.