New Delhi: Starting October 1, only Aadhaar-authenticated users will be able to book reserved general tickets through the IRCTC website or app during the first 15 minutes after booking opens for any train, the Railway Ministry announced on Monday.
This restriction, which currently applies only to Tatkal bookings, is being extended to general reservations to prevent misuse and ensure genuine passengers benefit from the system.
According to the circular, after the initial 15 minutes, authorised ticket agents will be permitted to make online bookings. However, there will be no change in booking timings at computerised PRS counters. The existing 10-minute restriction on agents booking opening-day tickets at counters will also remain in place.
The ministry has directed CRIS and IRCTC to update their systems accordingly and inform all zonal railways.
Officials said the step builds on the success of a similar measure for Tatkal bookings. For instance, if reservations for a train departing at 10 am open today at 10 am, only Aadhaar-authenticated users can book general tickets between 10:00 and 10:15 am.
Previously, such restrictions were limited to Tatkal bookings, which open a day in advance—10 am for AC classes and 11 am for non-AC classes.
