When booking a train ticket in India, you might see different terms for your ticket status. One such term is PQWL, which means Pooled Quota Waiting List. This status applies to passengers traveling between smaller stations along a train route.
What Does PQWL Mean?
If your ticket shows PQWL, it means:
- Your booking is not confirmed yet.
- You are on a waitlist for tickets meant for smaller stations.
- It applies to passengers not traveling from the train’s starting or ending stations.
How Does PQWL Work?
If you book a ticket from a smaller station and all seats under the pooled quota are taken, you get a PQWL status. Here’s how it works:
- Booking Stage: If no pooled quota seats are left, your ticket gets a PQWL status.
- Limited Availability: Fewer tickets are available under PQWL compared to General Waitlist (GNWL) or Tatkal Waitlist (TQWL).
- Chance of Confirmation: PQWL tickets have lower chances of confirmation since fewer seats are reserved under this category.
Who Gets PQWL Tickets?
PQWL tickets are usually given to passengers who:
- Travel between smaller stations.
- Do not board from the train’s main starting station or get off at the final stop.
This system helps distribute tickets fairly among travelers from less busy stations, but it also means confirmation chances are lower.
How to Check PQWL Status?
To see if your PQWL ticket is confirmed or still on the waitlist, use your PNR number (a 10-digit number on your ticket).
Ways to check:
- Visit a railway website or app like IRCTC.
- Enter your PNR number in the PNR status section.
- Click “Check Status” to see your ticket details.
Conclusion
PQWL means your ticket is on the Pooled Quota Waiting List, which is for passengers traveling between smaller stations. Since confirmation chances are lower, it’s important to check your PNR status regularly. If your ticket does not get confirmed before the train departs, you won’t be able to board, and you can apply for a refund.