Indian Railways has announced a major change in the online train ticket booking system.
Aadhaar verification will now be compulsory for booking e-tickets on the opening day of the advance reservation period.
The new rule will be rolled out in three phases so that passengers can adjust smoothly to the updated process.
Phase-Wise Implementation Explained
Phase 1: From December 29
In the first phase, passengers can book e-tickets only after Aadhaar verification between 8 AM and 12 PM on the opening day.
This means online booking will be allowed for just four hours.
Phase 2: From January 5
The second phase expands the booking window.
Aadhaar-verified users can book tickets from 8 AM to 4 PM, giving them eight hours to complete their bookings.
Phase 3: From January 12
In the final phase, the system will be fully implemented.
On the opening day, e-ticket booking will be available from 8 AM to 12 PM, strictly for Aadhaar-verified users.
Why Railways Introduced This Change
The order was issued by Railway Board Director (Passenger Marketing-II) Sanjay Manocha.
Railway officials say the move is aimed at increasing transparency and reducing the role of ticket touts.
No Change for Offline Ticket Booking
Railways has clarified that this new rule applies only to online e-ticket bookings.
Tickets booked through reservation counters will continue as usual, with no changes.
Overall, the new system is expected to make online ticket booking more secure, fair, and better regulated for passengers.
