Indian Railways to Let Passengers Book Excess Luggage Online from July 31
New Delhi: In a major step towards improving passenger convenience, Indian Railways will roll out an online excess luggage booking facility from July 31, enabling travelers to reserve additional baggage space while booking their train tickets.
The new feature is expected to simplify the travel experience by removing the need for passengers to visit parcel or luggage booking counters separately before boarding their trains. Instead, travelers carrying baggage beyond the free allowance will be able to complete the process digitally during ticket reservation through the railway's booking platform.
The move is part of Indian Railways' ongoing efforts to modernize passenger services through digital initiatives. The recently upgraded IRCTC booking platform has introduced several user-friendly features, and online excess luggage booking is another addition aimed at reducing paperwork and waiting times.
Avoid Heavy Penalties
Railway authorities have also reminded passengers that traveling with unbooked excess luggage can attract significant penalties. Excess baggage that is not declared or booked may be charged at up to six times the applicable luggage rate, depending on the extent of the violation under existing railway rules.
A Step Towards Digital Rail Travel
Officials believe the online facility will make train travel smoother, especially for families, long-distance travelers, and passengers carrying multiple bags. By integrating luggage booking into the reservation process, Indian Railways aims to reduce congestion at luggage offices and provide a more seamless travel experience.
The feature is expected to become available for passengers from July 31, further strengthening the railway network's ongoing digital transformation.