Railway Tickets: New Rules Implemented for Tatkal Bookings; Aadhaar E-Verification Now Mandatory

In a significant move to streamline the Tatkal ticketing system and curb misuse, the Indian Railways has introduced a new rule mandating Aadhaar e-verification for all Tatkal ticket bookings. This decision, announced by the Ministry of Railways, aims to ensure that the Tatkal facility is accessible only to genuine and verified passengers.

For years, the Tatkal ticket service has served as a vital option for last-minute travelers in need of urgent rail bookings. However, the system has often been plagued by misuse, leading to many genuine passengers being denied tickets due to fraudulent or bulk bookings.

Under the new regulation, only passengers who have completed Aadhaar-based e-authentication will be allowed to book Tatkal tickets online. The move is expected to bring more transparency and reduce fraudulent activity in the Tatkal quota.

“Tatkal tickets are meant for emergencies and urgent travel,” said a senior railway official. “Unfortunately, this system has been exploited over time. Aadhaar verification will help ensure that the facility benefits those who truly need it.”

The Indian Railways operates one of the largest rail networks in the world, transporting millions of passengers daily. The introduction of Aadhaar e-verification is part of its ongoing efforts to modernize services and improve user experience.

Railway officials have advised passengers to complete their Aadhaar e-verification at the earliest through their IRCTC accounts to avoid last-minute inconveniences while booking Tatkal tickets.These updated rules are expected to make the Tatkal ticketing process more secure, efficient, and accessible for authentic users.