NewzVille Desk
Central Railway has intensified its drive against the misuse of the Foreign Tourist (FT) quota following the detection of irregularities in bookings made by Indian citizens traveling without valid supporting documents.
This matter came to light on February 4, 2026, aboard Train No. 12296 (Sangamitra Express), where several Indian passengers were found traveling on FT quota tickets without possessing the documents mandatory for foreign tourists.
A detailed analysis was conducted on bookings made under the FT quota for future travel dates. The investigation revealed that between April 24, 2026, and June 11, 2026, a total of 174 original PNRs (Passenger Name Records) under the FT quota were issued by Central Railway across 31 different trains.
Special checks were conducted by Central Railway’s ticket-checking staff to verify the authenticity of these FT quota tickets. During these operations, 39 PNRs booked through the misuse of the FT quota were identified. A total of 121 passengers were caught traveling irregularly.
Fines were imposed on them in accordance with existing regulations, resulting in the collection of ₹3,56,916 in penalties. The passengers were denied occupancy of the berths, which were subsequently re-allocated to passengers on the RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) and Waiting Lists.
Additional information has been sought from IRCTC to ascertain the involvement, if any, of authorized booking agents in these transactions. Investigations are currently underway to identify the individuals and entities involved in making unauthorized bookings under the FT quota.
Booking tickets under an ineligible quota constitutes a punishable offense under the Railways Act.
Passengers are required to carry the valid identity cards and supporting documents mandated for the specific quota under which their tickets have been booked. Central Railway appeals to passengers to report or share any such information with the nearest railway personnel on duty, by calling 139, or through the ‘Rail Madad’ app.
Central Railway also appeals to all passengers to ensure the authenticity and validity of their tickets before commencing their journey.
