IRCTC Website Crashes During Diwali Ticket Booking Rush
The IRCTC website and mobile app experienced widespread outages as users rushed to book train tickets for Diwali and Chhath Puja travel.
Service Disruption Statistics
According to Downdetector data:
- 48% of users reported website issues
- 37% experienced mobile app problems
- 14% faced difficulties during ticket booking
User Reports and Downtime Message
Social media platforms were flooded with complaints from frustrated users sharing screenshots of the official downtime message:
“Booking and cancellation for all site will not be available for the next hour. Inconvenience is deeply regretted. For cancellation or file TDR, please call customer care….”
Upcoming Policy Changes
In related railway news, the government has announced significant ticket flexibility reforms starting January 2026.
Key changes include:
- Date changes on confirmed tickets without cancellation fees
- Payment of fare difference if new date has higher pricing
- Availability subject to seat confirmation
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw criticized the current system, stating:
“This system is unfair and not in the interest of passengers,”
Current Cancellation Policy
Under existing rules:
- 25% fare deduction for cancellations 48-12 hours before departure
- Higher deductions for cancellations within 12-4 hours
- No refund after reservation chart preparation
