Keeping passenger convenience at the forefront, Indian Railways has introduced a major update to its ticket upgradation scheme. Under the new policy, sleeper class passengers can now be upgraded directly to second AC (2AC) for free—an enhancement from the earlier provision which allowed upgrades only to third AC (3AC).

The updated scheme is being rolled out across 300 passenger trains in the Bhopal division, targeting the upgradation of more than 7,000 reserved tickets. This initiative promises a more comfortable and luxurious travel experience at no additional cost, especially beneficial on long-distance routes.

Originally launched in 2006, the auto upgradation scheme allowed upgrades based on seat availability—sleeper to 3AC, and 3AC to 2AC. The revamped policy now enables sleeper class passengers to be upgraded directly to 2AC if vacant seats are available.

This entire process is automated and executed during chart preparation by the Passenger Reservation System (PRS). While booking, passengers must select the ‘Consider for Auto Upgradation’ option. If they do not manually opt in or out, the system defaults to ‘Yes’.

The Bhopal Division, part of the West Central Railway, is set to benefit the most. Nearly 7,000 reserved tickets across 300 trains—ranging from Mail/Express to Superfast categories—are expected to be upgraded daily. The scheme is particularly effective on routes where sleeper class demand is high but upper-class seats remain vacant. For example, trains running between Bhopal and cities like Delhi and Mumbai will offer improved amenities such as air-conditioned coaches, enhanced bedding, and added privacy to eligible passengers.

Key Features and Rules of the New Auto Upgradation Scheme:

• Eligibility: Only full fare-paying passengers are eligible. Those with concessional tickets (such as senior citizens, pass holders, or other discounts) will not be considered for upgradation.
• Automated Process: The upgradation is handled automatically by the Passenger Reservation System (PRS) during chart preparation. Travelling Ticket Examiners (TTEs) or conductors have no role in this process.
• Seat Availability: A minimum of six vacant seats must be available in the higher class (3AC or 2AC) for upgradation to occur. If not all eligible passengers can be upgraded, none will be upgraded.
• Cancellation Policy: If an upgraded ticket is cancelled, the cancellation fee will be based on the original sleeper class fare, not the upgraded class.
• Integration with VIKALP Scheme: The auto upgradation scheme works in tandem with the VIKALP scheme, which offers confirmed seats to waitlisted passengers on alternate trains.

The new initiative offers multiple benefits. Passengers will enjoy superior facilities like air-conditioned coaches, clean restrooms, and free bedding—without any fare hike. This is especially valuable for long-distance travellers who often face overcrowding in sleeper coaches. From a revenue standpoint, Indian Railways can optimize occupancy and reduce wastage of vacant upper-class seats.

The announcement has stirred buzz on social media, with many applauding the move. Some users have voiced concerns about sleeper class seat availability. However, officials from the Bhopal division have clarified that sleeper class quotas will not be affected, as upgrades will be based solely on available upper-class seats.

This enhancement by Indian Railways stands to significantly improve the passenger experience. Upgrading over 7,000 tickets across 300 trains daily in the Bhopal division not only elevates comfort but also ensures better seat utilization and revenue optimization.