Indian Railways has announced major changes to its ticket reservation system to make booking faster and easier for passengers. The Ministry of Railways said a new technology-based system will soon replace the current reservation system that has been in use for nearly 40 years.
According to the ministry, the new software will make ticket booking up to five times faster. This will help passengers book tickets quickly both online and at railway booking counters. Officials believe the change will also help reduce long queues and congestion at stations.
The ministry said the new system will address many problems faced by passengers in the current reservation process. It is also expected to reduce technical issues that sometimes affect ticket booking.
Another major aim of the new system is to stop malpractices in ticket reservations, especially in Tatkal bookings. Authorities said the changes will help prevent middlemen and agencies from unfairly securing tickets meant for passengers.
The Railway Ministry said around 2.5 crore people travel by trains in India every day. Therefore, improving the reservation system is important to avoid inconvenience for passengers.
The new passenger reservation system is expected to cost around ₹1,000 crore to implement. Officials added that the railway department is also working to improve the system further so that more passengers can get confirmed tickets and the waiting list can be avoided.
