Railways’ Big Move: 2.5 Crore IRCTC IDs Deactivated, Major Rules Changed
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Indian Railways has taken a big action against the misuse of online ticket booking system and has deactivated more than 2.5 crore IRCTC user IDs. The government gave this information in response to a question by MP A.D. Singh in Parliament.
2.5 crore IRCTC IDs deactivated, Railways took a big decision; These rules were changed: The government said that these IDs were deactivated after suspicious booking patterns and fake users were identified. These fake IDs and bots were also responsible for the problems occurring every day in Tatkal ticket booking. It was often seen that as soon as the Tatkal ticket booking window opened, all the tickets would disappear within a few minutes, because agents used to do bulk booking using bots, due to which common passengers were not able to get tickets. Passengers are now expected to get relief from this step of the Railways.
The government also said that other changes have also been made to prevent irregularities in the ticket booking system. Rules regarding emergency quota have been amended. Earlier, application under this quota could be made only on the day of travel, but now one will have to apply for emergency quota a day before the journey. This quota is for MPs, high officials, medical emergencies and senior citizens.
Railways made these important changes:
1. Reserved tickets can now be booked online or from PRS (Computerized Passenger Reservation System) counters on a 'first come, first serve' basis.
2. About 89% of the total tickets are being booked through online mode.
3. Facility of digital payment has been made available at PRS counters.
4. From July 1, 2025, only Aadhaar verified users will be able to book Tatkal tickets from IRCTC website or app.
5. Agents are barred from booking tickets for 30 minutes before opening of Tatkal reservation.
6. The waiting list status is being regularly monitored and Railways is running special trains as and when demand increases.