The Indian Railways’ UTS (Unreserved Ticketing System) app has made ticket booking simple, allowing passengers to avoid long queues at counters. From daily commutes to occasional travel, the UTS app offers a range of ticket types that cater to various travel needs, making journeys smoother and more convenient. Here’s a guide to the types of tickets you can buy through the UTS app and how each ticket type can benefit you.
1. Paperless Journey Ticket
The paperless journey ticket is ideal for travelers who need a quick and environmentally friendly option. This ticket is available entirely within the UTS app, eliminating the need for a printed version.
- GPS Verification: The app uses GPS to confirm that you are within a certain range of the station premises, allowing for a real-time, paperless booking.
- Digital Storage: Once booked, the ticket is stored in the app under “Booked Ticket History,” which you can show to the ticket checker during your journey.
- Time-Saving: This is a great option for daily commuters or anyone in a hurry, as it avoids the need to print a ticket. Best For: Commuters looking for a fast, hassle-free booking option.
2. Paperless Platform Ticket
The UTS app also offers a convenient platform ticket option for those who need to access the platform but aren’t boarding a train. This ticket is available paperless, making it especially useful when you’re on a tight schedule.
- Instant Access: Platform tickets are stored digitally, allowing users to avoid ticket counter queues.
- Eco-Friendly: With no need for a physical ticket, it reduces paper waste, contributing to a greener environment.
- Easy Validation: Security personnel can easily check the ticket on your phone. Best For: Friends and family visiting the station to drop off or pick up passengers.
3. Book & Print Ticket
For those who prefer a physical ticket, the UTS app offers a “Book & Print” ticket option. This allows travelers to book their tickets on the app and print them at the station.
- Booking Code: After booking, you receive a code that can be used to print your ticket at an Automatic Ticket Vending Machine (ATVM) or at the station counter.
- Flexible Usage: Unlike paperless tickets, this mode doesn’t require GPS verification, so it’s a more flexible option for users with limited internet or GPS access.
- Physical Record: Some travelers may prefer a printed ticket for ease of use or to keep as a record of their journey. Best For: Travelers who prefer or need a physical ticket and are traveling in areas with spotty internet or GPS service.
4. Season Tickets
Season tickets are perfect for regular commuters who travel the same route frequently. The UTS app offers season tickets that are valid for one month, three months, or longer.
- Cost Savings: Season tickets provide significant discounts over daily ticket purchases, making them a cost-effective choice for daily travel.
- Easy Renewal: The app allows you to renew your season ticket directly, so you won’t need to visit the station each time it expires.
- Flexible Usage: Season tickets are valid for unlimited travel within the selected route, so you can travel as many times as needed within the ticket period. Best For: Daily commuters looking for a convenient and budget-friendly option.
5. Return Tickets
The UTS app offers return ticket options, which can be a great choice for same-day travelers who plan to return to their original station.
- Time-Saving: Return tickets save time by bundling the outgoing and return journey into one booking.
- Reduced Costs: Return tickets can also offer cost savings over purchasing two separate tickets.
- Convenience: With both trips covered in a single ticket, travelers can focus on their journey without worrying about booking a separate ticket for the return. Best For: Same-day travelers looking for an efficient round-trip ticket option.
Final Thoughts
The UTS app provides multiple ticketing options tailored to meet a range of travel needs, from frequent commuters to occasional travelers. By offering both paperless and physical options, the app enables convenience and flexibility for a variety of passenger preferences.