Indian Railways has implemented new rules to make online ticket booking more transparent. From January 5th, users who have not linked their IRCTC accounts to Aadhaar will not be able to book tickets between 8 AM and 4 PM on the first day the reservation window opens.
This restriction will only apply to bookings that open 60 days before the train's departure date, giving priority to genuine passengers.
The Ministry of Railways is implementing this change in phases to allow users time to understand the new system. The first phase began on December 29th, while the second phase is effective from today, January 5th. The third phase will be implemented from January 12th.
Phase 1: From December 29th, users without Aadhaar-linked accounts were restricted from booking between 8 AM and 12 PM.
Phase 2: From January 5th, the restriction will continue from 8 AM to 4 PM.
Phase 3: From January 12th, ticket booking from such accounts will be completely stopped from 8 AM to midnight.
These changes aim to reduce the load on the system during peak hours.
Curbing fraudulent bookings
This move by the railways is primarily aimed at preventing bookings made through fake accounts and by touts. The goal is to make confirmed tickets available to as many genuine passengers as possible on the opening day.
This step will provide equal opportunities to common people on the online platform and curb software-based manipulation.
Important questions related to the new general reservation booking rules:
Question 1: Why was this rule introduced?
Answer: The railways have taken this major step to curb ticket touts and fraudulent software. This will ensure that ordinary passengers can easily get confirmed tickets on the opening day.
Agents will now be unable to book tickets during the first four hours. Ordinary users will have a full opportunity to book tickets.
Question 2: How will Aadhaar work?
Answer: You will need to link your IRCTC account with your Aadhaar. When booking, an OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number, and your ticket will be confirmed only after entering this OTP. Question 3: Will tickets not be booked without Aadhaar?
Answer: Users without an Aadhaar linked to their accounts will not be able to book tickets during the initial 4 hours. They will be given the opportunity only after this period.
Question 4: Have the rules changed for booking tickets at the counter as well?
Answer: Yes, an OTP is now required even when booking tickets at the counter. Please ensure that your mobile number is linked to your Aadhaar. If you are booking a ticket for someone else, their Aadhaar and OTP will also be required.
Question 5: How to link Aadhaar with IRCTC?
Answer: To do this, you need to log in to the IRCTC app or website. Then, go to the 'My Profile' section, select the 'Aadhaar KYC' option, and update your details. After this, your Aadhaar card will be linked to your IRCTC account.
Question 6: Where can I get help?
Answer: For booking or OTP-related issues, you can call the IRCTC helpline number (139). If you are facing any problems with your Aadhaar, you can call the UIDAI helpline number (1947). You can also seek assistance at the nearest railway station counter.
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