Indian Railways introduces app-based booking for unreserved, platform tickets
Indian Railways has revolutionized its ticketing system, by enabling app-based booking for unreserved and platform tickets. As per a report by Times of India, this significant change allows passengers to purchase tickets from any location. Saurabh Kataria, senior divisional commercial manager, stated that railway passengers can now get unreserved and platform tickets without stepping out of their homes. This development is expected to enhance the overall travel experience for passengers.
Removal of geo-fencing distance restriction enhances accessibility
Previously, a geo-fencing distance restriction, limited ticket booking to a 50km radius. This constraint has now been removed, enabling passengers with a smartphone and internet access, to book tickets from any location. This change is particularly beneficial for cities like Mumbai where daily commuting via local trains is prevalent. The removal of the restriction is expected to encourage more online ticket bookings, and reduce queues at railway station ticket counters.
Inner limits for ticket purchases remain unchanged
Despite the removal of the geo-fencing distance restriction, the rules regarding inner limits remain unchanged. This means that ticket purchases near railway station premises are still allowed. Prior to this change, paperless tickets for suburban trains could only be purchased within a 20km radius, and 50km for non-suburban trains. Current data suggests that approximately 25% of commuters utilize the Unreserved Ticketing System (UTS) app, for online ticket purchases.
