With the advancement in digital ticketing, booking a train ticket no longer requires standing in long queues at station counters. The Indian Railways’ Unreserved Ticketing System (UTS) app has made it possible to book tickets conveniently from your smartphone, even within station premises. In this article, we’ll cover how to use the UTS app to book tickets while inside a railway station, as well as its key benefits, tips, and best practices.
1. What Is the UTS App?
The UTS app, developed by the Indian Railways, is designed to allow passengers to book unreserved tickets for suburban and non-suburban trains. This app offers flexibility for purchasing general or platform tickets, eliminating the need to queue at counters.
2. How to Book a Ticket Inside the Station Using the UTS App
Booking a ticket within station premises using the UTS app is simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Download the UTS App: If you haven’t already, download the UTS app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and complete the quick registration process.
- Select Your Ticket Type: Open the app, select either the “Book Ticket” or “Platform Ticket” option based on your need.
- Choose Booking Mode: Within the app, you’ll see options for “Book & Travel” and “Paperless Ticket.” If you’re inside station premises, the app automatically uses your GPS location to determine eligibility and provides a paperless option if available.
- Enter Journey Details: Fill in details such as your boarding and destination stations, ticket type (single, return), and class.
- Payment: Choose your payment method from options like UPI, digital wallets, and net banking. Once payment is confirmed, your ticket is instantly generated.
- Accessing Your Ticket: The UTS app generates a QR code as a digital ticket, stored under “Booked Ticket History.” Simply show this QR code to the ticket checker when required.
3. Benefits of Using the UTS App Within Station Premises
- Convenience: No more waiting in long queues; you can book a ticket within minutes.
- Paperless and Eco-Friendly: The UTS app promotes a paperless system, helping reduce environmental impact.
- Flexible Options: Whether you need a platform ticket, a single journey ticket, or a return ticket, the app caters to various needs.
- Real-Time Booking: The app’s GPS capability enables real-time booking, allowing for a seamless experience even in crowded stations.
4. Limitations and Tips for Using the UTS App at Stations
- GPS Limitations: The UTS app relies on GPS to verify that you’re within the station premises. Ensure your GPS is active, as bookings may not work without accurate location data.
- Network Connectivity: For effective use, a stable internet connection is required. Make sure your mobile data or Wi-Fi is working well, as connectivity issues might interrupt the process.
- Battery and Accessibility: Since it’s a mobile app, a charged smartphone is essential. Consider bringing a portable charger, especially for longer journeys.
5. FAQs for Booking Inside the Station Premises Using the UTS App
- Is the UTS app usable on all platforms? Yes, it’s available on both Android and iOS devices.
- Can I book for multiple passengers? Absolutely. You can book tickets for up to four passengers at a time.
- What if my phone runs out of battery? It’s recommended to carry a backup power source, such as a portable charger, to prevent losing access to your ticket mid-journey.
Final Thoughts
Booking a ticket from within station premises using the UTS app is a hassle-free, fast, and eco-friendly option that caters to modern travelers’ needs.