What does 'Chart Prepared' mean on your PNR?
Chart Prepared means Indian Railways has finalized all passenger allocations for this train's journey. Your ticket's final status is now locked: CNF gets a coach + berth number, RAC gets a half-berth number, WL gets auto-cancelled with refund initiated. The status line usually reads 'Chart Prepared — CNF/S5/24' or 'Chart Prepared — RAC/B2/47' etc.
What to do after chart is prepared — by status
If CNF: note your coach letter and berth number from the PNR. Go to your coach, it is displayed on the platform. If RAC: board the train at your allocated half-berth. Tell the TTE your RAC number — upgrades happen based on no-shows. If WL: ticket is auto-cancelled — do not go to station. Check IRCTC account for refund status in 5-7 days.
Can I still cancel after chart preparation?
Partial cancellation of confirmed tickets is not allowed after chart preparation. If you want to cancel a CNF or RAC ticket after chart prep and before departure, you can file a TDR on IRCTC — but you will get a partial or no refund depending on how close to departure. WL tickets are already auto-cancelled with no action needed from you.