India reserved train usage hits new peak in 2024-25 data
Indian Railways is witnessing a shift in passenger booking preferences, with a sharp rise in reserved class ticketing and a dip in unreserved bookings in non-suburban regions. While suburban unreserved ticketing has bounced back since 2021–22, post-Covid travel behaviour and improved financial capacity of middle-income groups appear to be driving more passengers towards the comfort and predictability of reserved train travel.
Recent railway data suggests a noticeable decline in unreserved ticket bookings in non-suburban areas, while reserved class bookings have reached record highs since 2021–22. According to senior officials, the shift reflects changing socioeconomic patterns post-pandemic. Middle-class travellers, who once relied on unreserved trains, are increasingly opting for reserved compartments due to enhanced affordability, increased health concerns, and the availability of online booking options offering more predictability and convenience.
The year 2024–25 saw over 807 million passengers booking reserved class tickets—the highest since 2014–15. This growth trend began in 2021–22 with 772 million bookings and continued steadily. In contrast, unreserved bookings in non-suburban regions, which were robust between 2014 and 2020, fell sharply during the pandemic. Although there has been a gradual recovery, the numbers haven’t reached pre-Covid levels, signalling a lasting change in travel choices.
In suburban areas, unreserved travel rebounded more quickly. From just 925 million tickets booked in 2020–21, suburban unreserved bookings grew to 4.2 billion by 2024–25. Experts believe urban workforce mobility and the affordability of short-distance travel have helped maintain demand. However, even within suburban zones, an uptick in passengers opting for reserved options where available indicates a growing preference for assured seating, cleaner coaches, and time-specific travel.
The dip in non-suburban unreserved bookings may also reflect larger issues—such as poor frequency of local trains, discomfort during long-haul journeys, and lack of adequate facilities in general compartments. Authorities indicate that reserved trains now serve as a default for many passengers due to digital accessibility, faster ticket processing, and better travel experience. This evolution in travel habits could prompt long-term changes in railway policy and capacity planning.
The post-pandemic rail booking landscape highlights a shift in public behaviour—one driven by comfort, predictability, and improving financial stability. As reserved ticketing continues to surge and unreserved bookings fluctuate, Indian Railways may need to rethink how it balances capacity, affordability, and service quality across segments. The data suggests a future where reserved travel could become the norm even for short-distance, non-premium journeys.
