Patna: Indian Railways has introduced an OTP-based authentication system for Tatkal ticket bookings in an effort to curb touting and increase transparency in the reservation process. The new system came into effect on Thursday in the Samastipur Division of the East Central Railway (ECR).
Under the revised mechanism, passengers booking Tatkal tickets—either online or through Passenger Reservation Counters (PRS)—will be required to verify their identity using a one-time password sent to their registered mobile number. Without OTP verification, a Tatkal booking will not be completed.
The initiative was announced by the divisional railway manager of Samastipur, Jyoti Prakash Mishra, following directions from the Railway Board. Officials said the measure was introduced in response to long-standing complaints about unfair practices and alleged manipulation by touts during the Tatkal booking window.
The OTP system currently applies to around 100 long-distance trains originating from or passing through the Samastipur Division. Railway authorities said linking each booking to a verified mobile number would make the process more secure and ensure that Tatkal tickets reach genuine passengers.
Mishra said the Samastipur rollout would serve as a pilot for possible expansion to other divisions. Passengers have been advised to ensure that their mobile numbers are correctly updated in the reservation system to avoid inconvenience.
Railway officials described the move as part of a broader push towards digitalisation, transparency and passenger-centric reforms aimed at improving the overall ticket booking experience.
