When is the first chart prepared for Indian Railways trains?

The first reservation chart is prepared 4 hours prior to the train's scheduled departure from its originating station.

When is the second chart prepared?

The second chart is finalized 30 minutes before departure, accounting for current counter bookings and last-minute cancellations.

Chart Preparation Timings & Rules Explained

Last updated: 1 August 2026

Reservation chart preparation is the final administrative process where Indian Railways locks in berth allocations, upgrades waitlisted passengers, and publishes passenger lists for train conductors and station boards.

First Chart vs. Second Chart Timings

1. First Reservation Chart (4 Hours Prior)

The 1st chart is prepared at least 4 hours before scheduled departure from the train's originating station. For morning trains departing before 11:00 AM, the first chart is generated the previous evening by 8:00 PM.

2. Second Reservation Chart (30 Mins Prior)

The 2nd chart is generated 30 to 45 minutes before departure. This accounts for last-minute current reservation bookings made online or at station counters after the 1st chart release.

What Happens After Chart Preparation?

Status Freeze: Your PNR status becomes final. No further automatic waitlist movements occur.
E-ticket Auto-cancellation: Fully waitlisted e-tickets are automatically cancelled and refunded.
Current Booking Opens: Unsold vacant berths are made available for booking via Current Reservation until 30 minutes before departure.

Check if your train chart is prepared: Check PNR Status Now · RAC Ticket Rules