PNR demystified: Crack the code behind railway ticket's mysterious numbers before you travel

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Indian Railways is continuously setting new records in the field of technology and today it is counted among the largest and busiest rail networks in the world. It is no less than a challenge for the Railways to safely transport millions of passengers to their destinations every day. Keeping in mind the convenience and safety of the passengers, the Railways has created many technical codes and short forms to make the work smooth. We often see these codes written on the tickets or on the train coaches, but do not know their real meaning. The most important among these is the 'PNR' number, without which reserved travel is unimaginable.

Many passengers don't know the full form of PNR or how it works. PNR stands for Passenger Name Record. It's a unique 10-digit code that serves as a digital record of your booking. The Railways issues this number when you book a ticket. This short number contains all the important information, including the passenger's name, age, train number, coach, seat number, and travel date. Technically, the first three digits of this code represent the railway zone, while the remaining seven are randomly generated. This number allows you to check the status of a waiting or confirmed ticket.

Understanding not only PNR, but also the codes written on train coaches is crucial for a smart traveler. Railways have designated specific codes for different classes. For example, if SL is written on the ticket or coach, it indicates non-AC sleeper class. Codes like B1 and B2 are used for third AC , and A1 and A2 for second AC. The most premium first AC class, H1 , is used for cabins and locking doors. Furthermore, GS is used for general compartments , and SLR is used for disabled passengers or luggage. In trains like Shatabdi, CC is used for chair cars, and EC for executive class . When extra coaches are added during festivals or rush hours, they are coded SE1 or SE2 . By knowing these codes, passengers don't have to struggle to find their coach on the platform.