Railways Introduces OTP Verification for Tatkal Tickets at Reservation Counters

December 3, 2025

New Delhi: In a move to ensure fair access for genuine passengers and prevent ticketing malpractices, the Railway Ministry has implemented a one-time password (OTP) verification system for Tatkal bookings made at physical reservation counters.

OTP System Expanded to Multiple Trains

The system, which was piloted on November 17 for a limited set of trains, has now been expanded to cover 52 trains. Officials said the rollout will continue in phases, eventually covering all trains under the Tatkal scheme. Passengers will receive an OTP on the mobile number provided in the reservation form, and tickets will be issued only after successful verification.

Aimed at Curbing Touts and Middlemen

The ministry stated that linking each counter transaction to a mobile OTP will reduce manipulation by touts and agents who often exploit the limited Tatkal quota. This step is expected to ensure last-minute tickets reach genuine travellers rather than intermediaries.

Part of Broader Ticketing Reforms

This initiative builds on earlier measures introduced this year, including Aadhaar-based OTP verification for online Tatkal bookings in July and restricted access for general ticket bookings during the first 15 minutes on the IRCTC platform from October 1. Officials say these reforms collectively strengthen transparency, improve convenience, and make it harder for fraudulent elements to corner tickets during peak demand periods.