Railways Introduces Free Sleeper to Third AC Auto Upgrade Policy

21 May 2025 CW Team

Indian Railways has introduced an auto-upgrade policy allowing confirmed Sleeper Class passengers to be moved to Third AC at no additional cost. The move aims to improve travel comfort and optimise seat occupancy, especially during off-peak periods when higher-class seats remain vacant.

The system works during preparation of the first reservation chart, about four hours before departure. Passengers must opt-in during booking by selecting “Consider for Auto Upgrade”; otherwise, the system defaults to “Yes”.

Upgrades are limited to two class levels. For example, a Sleeper ticket holder may be moved to Third AC, and from there to Second AC, depending on availability. However, upgrades to First AC are only allowed from Second AC.

The selection process is random and handled by the Passenger Reservation System, factoring in seat availability and booking status. Importantly, no extra charges apply.

This policy may limit current booking options in higher-class coaches like Chair Car, Third AC, and First AC, though Sleeper and Second Sitting classes remain unaffected.

While welcomed by many, some passengers have concerns about berth changes. Travellers are advised to check the final reservation chart before boarding.

Source:UrbanPost

Infrastructure Urban

06 Apr 2026

CFI Appoints New National Council for FY27 and FY28

The Construction Federation of India (CFI) has announced its newly elected National Council and office bearers for a two-year term covering FY27 and FY28. M. V. Satish, Advisor to CMD and Lead Ambassador for Middle East, L&T, has been elected President; Priti Patel, Chief Strategy & Growth Officer, Tata Projects, has been appointed Vice President; and Ajit Bhate, Managing Director, Precast India Infrastructures, has taken charge as Treasurer.The newly formed National Council brings together senior leaders from major EPC and infrastructure companies, reflecting CFI’s continued focus o..

India REIT Market Gains Momentum with Strong Returns

India’s Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) market is witnessing strong growth, emerging as a competitive investment avenue both domestically and across Asia. According to a recent ANAROCK report released at EXCELERATE 2026 by NAREDCO Maharashtra NextGen, the sector is evolving into a mature asset class driven by solid fundamentals, regulatory backing and rising investor confidence.The introduction of Small and Medium REITs (SM REITs) in 2025 has further widened access through fractional ownership, unlocking a potential monetisation opportunity of Rs 670–710 billion. Indian REITs have deli..

G R Infraprojects Secures Rs 4,130 Million BESS Contract From NTPC

G R Infraprojects said it has secured a contract from NTPC to supply and implement a battery energy storage system (BESS) valued at Rs 4,130 million (mn). The company reported the order was awarded as part of NTPC's ongoing efforts to enhance grid flexibility and energy storage capacity. The contract represents a notable addition to the firm's project pipeline and underscores demand for utility scale storage solutions. The award is expected to strengthen G R Infraprojects' presence in the energy infrastructure sector and to contribute to the firm's order book and future revenues, subject to st..