IRCTC Rules: Indian railways took big decision. The railway has taken a big step to prevent black marketing in Ticket Booking. Surely you are wondering what step? IRCTC has initiated a significant operation aimed at reducing fraud in railway ticket bookings. More than 30 million suspicious user IDs have been disabled. Additionally, another 60 million accounts are under review for verification. This action was prompted by complaints from passengers who faced challenges in securing confirmed tickets.
As per IRCTC officials, fake accounts, bots, and brokers have been hindering regular travelers from obtaining tickets. In response to 501 complaints, 4.2 lakh suspicious PNRs were examined over the year, leading to the blocking of 13,343 dubious email domains. This effort is anticipated to enhance ticket availability.
Emphasis on ticketing system security
IRCTC has ramped up its scrutiny of questionable digital identities and booking behaviors to thwart the misuse of its online booking system. Passengers frequently express frustration that tickets sell out rapidly during peak booking periods. Tickets are often purchased in bulk through fraudulent accounts and subsequently resold at inflated prices.
This initiative by IRCTC aims to boost transparency within the system and offer convenience to legitimate passengers. The Railways has also stepped up actions based on complaints submitted through its cybercrime portal. This measure marks a significant advancement in the digital transformation of Indian Railways.
In addition to ticketing reforms, IRCTC has integrated AI technology to enhance the quality of catering services. Over 800 railway kitchens are now monitored by AI through 2,394 smart cameras. These cameras are capable of identifying nine types of hygiene violations, including the absence of head caps and transparent gloves, inadequate cleaning, and the presence of pests such as rats, flies, and cockroaches. The AI is so advanced that it can even detect insects as small as 7-8 millimeters. The most frequently observed violation is the failure to wear head caps.
IRCTC believes that cracking down on fake and suspicious user IDs will make the ticket booking system more transparent. This will curb black-market agents and increase the chances of getting confirmed tickets for ordinary passengers, making train travel more comfortable.
