Aadhaar OTP now mandatory for Tatkal online booking: Railways

Passengers planning to book Tatkal tickets online will now need to undergo Aadhaar OTP verification, as Indian Railways has rolled out a new mandate aimed at curbing misuse and ensuring fair access to high-demand bookings.

From July 15 onwards, the Aadhaar-based OTP system has become compulsory for all online Tatkal reservations, according to Uchit Singhal, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of Northern Railway’s Jammu Division.

New Rules to Ensure Transparency and Fair Access

Singhal explained that the move is part of broader efforts to bring greater transparency and accountability into the Tatkal ticketing system. “Passengers must now carry a mobile device linked to their Aadhaar number at the time of booking,” he said. The one-time password (OTP) sent to this number will serve as authentication for the booking process.

Booking Through IRCTC and Authorised Agents Only

Tatkal tickets can now be booked via the IRCTC website, mobile app, or Indian Railways’ PRS counters. Authorised agents will also be allowed to book, but only after OTP verification through the Railway Reservation System.

No Bulk Booking in Initial Window

In a significant step to discourage bulk bookings, especially during peak demand, the Railways has restricted agent bookings during the first 30 minutes of the Tatkal booking window. This restriction will apply:

From 10 am to 10.30 am for AC classes

From 11 am to 11.30 am for non-AC classes

Aadhaar Linking Urged

The Railway administration has urged all passengers to link their Aadhaar details with their IRCTC profiles to avoid last-minute inconvenience.

This move, officials believe, will strengthen the integrity of the Tatkal system and ensure that genuine passengers benefit from it.