Indian Railways has recently made major changes in the rules related to general ticket booking. These changes have been made aimed at promoting passengers’ convenience, crowd management and digital process. Now passengers will not need to stand in long lines and take tickets. In addition, the ticket booking process has been made more simple and environmentally friendly. Let us know in detail about these new rules and their effects.
General ticket booking new update: at a glance
| Speciality | Description |
| Applied date | 7 February 2025 |
| Booking platform | UTS App, IRCTC website |
| Payment option | UPI, Debit/Credit Card, Wallet |
| Ticket validity | Paperless (qR code) |
| Booking time limit | Till 3 days before the journey |
| Environmental impact | Paperless process, environmental protection |
New rules of general ticket
The new rules implemented by Indian Railways are to make the journey of passengers more convenient and safe. Here are the details of these changes:
1. online booking facility
Now passengers can book general tickets on their mobile phone through the UTS app or IRCTC website. This facility will not only save time but will also get rid of the problem of standing in long lines.
2. paperless ticketing
The Railways has implemented a paperless ticketing system, taking steps towards environmental protection. Passengers can now show their tickets through QR code or SMS. The requirement of printed tickets is over.
3. Train-specific tickets
Under the new rules, the name and number of the train will now be recorded on the general ticket. This means that passengers can travel only in the same train for which they have bought a ticket.
4. Advance booking facility
Earlier general tickets were available only on the day of travel, but now passengers can book tickets till three days before their journey.
5. Digital Payment Options
Passengers have now been given the facility to pay digital medium such as UPI, Debit/Credit Card and Mobile Wallet. This will reduce the requirement of cash transactions.
How to book general tickets from UTS app?
It is very easy to use the UTS app. Here is the step-by-step process:
- Download the UTS app from Google Play Store or App Store on your mobile phone.
- After installing the app, register your mobile number.
- Fill your journey information, such as departure and destination stations.
- Select UPI, Debit/Credit Card or Wallet for Payment.
- After successful payment, you will get a QR code or SMS which will have to be shown during the journey.
Impact of these changes on passengers
The new rules will directly affect the travel system of passengers. The following are the main effects:
- Crowd management: Long lines and congestion at the station will be reduced.
- Security: The number of unauthorized passengers will decrease due to train-specific ticket system.
- Time Savings: Passengers can book tickets online from home.
- Environmental protection: The paperless process will be beneficial for the environment.
General Ticket FAQS (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: Does the UTS app work at all stations?
Answer: Yes, UTS app works at most stations. However, this facility cannot be available at some small stations.
Q2: Will the journey be valid if you show QR code?
Answer: Yes, your ticket will be considered valid if you show QR code or SMS.
Q3: Will you get tickets at the counter in the old way?
Answer: Yes, but the railway is giving priority to digital medium.
Q4: What will happen if the train misses?
Answer: Under the new rules, the same train will have to be caught whose name is recorded on your ticket. Otherwise a new ticket will have to be purchased.
Why were new rules implemented by the Railways?
Railways have recently made these changes in view of incidents like huge crowd and stampede at places like New Delhi station. The purpose of these measures:
- Crowd control
- Ensure safety of passengers
- Promote digital process
Current rules and facilities
| Description | New rule |
| Advance booking period | 3 days |
| Payment option | Digital (UPI, Card) |
| Option to change train | End |
| Senior Citizen Rebate | Ongoing |
| Paperless procedure | Applicable |
conclusion
These new rules implemented by Indian Railways will definitely improve the experience of travelers. Steps such as online booking, advance booking and paperless process will not only save time but will make the journey more convenient.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on the new rules declared by the Railways. However, all details can change according to official announcements. Be sure to read the official information issued by the Railways before traveling.
