The UTS on Mobile app, launched by Indian Railways, has simplified the process of booking unreserved tickets for suburban and short-distance journeys. With a range of features designed to enhance commuter convenience, the app provides options for booking paperless tickets, season tickets, and even platform tickets. However, one common query among users is whether GPS (Global Positioning System) is necessary while booking a ticket through the app. Let’s explore why the GPS feature is used in the UTS app and when it’s essential.
Why Does the UTS App Use GPS?
The UTS app relies on GPS to confirm a user’s proximity to the station where they intend to board. Since the app is designed for unreserved, short-distance travel, knowing the user’s real-time location helps Indian Railways ensure that ticketing regulations are followed and prevent misuse of the mobile ticketing feature. Here are some key reasons why GPS is integral:
- Preventing Ticket Misuse: GPS verifies that users are near the station from where they intend to start their journey, thus preventing ticket misuse by confirming that the booking is made in the proper location.
- Paperless Ticketing Compliance: GPS enables the paperless ticketing feature, which allows users to book, display, and travel with a ticket on their phone without the need for a printed copy. This feature, however, is only allowed within a designated area around the station.
- Location-Based Ticket Validation: Some tickets require users to be within a specific radius of the originating station. GPS helps ensure that users meet this requirement and verifies that their travel route aligns with the ticket issued.
When is GPS Required on the UTS App?
While GPS is used for location validation, it isn’t always necessary for every function within the app. Here’s when GPS is essential and when it isn’t:
- Paperless Ticket Booking: If you choose to book a paperless ticket, you must have GPS enabled on your mobile device. The app will check your location to ensure you’re within a certain radius of the departure station. Without GPS enabled, this booking mode will not be available.
- Platform Ticket Booking: For booking a platform ticket, GPS is generally not required, as this ticket is not tied to a specific route. However, GPS may still be used in some cases to validate the station where you intend to use the platform ticket.
- Booking While Away from the Station: If you’re far from the boarding station, the UTS app may prompt you to enable GPS or may restrict certain booking options, such as paperless tickets. In such cases, you can still book paper-based tickets without GPS by visiting a nearby station or railway counter.
What Happens If You Disable GPS?
Disabling GPS on your mobile device will limit certain functions of the UTS app. For instance, paperless ticket booking may not be available, and some features tied to location validation may not work as expected. However, if you are only booking printed tickets (where you’ll collect a printout at the station), GPS is typically not required.
Tips for Using GPS with the UTS App
- Enable GPS in Advance: If you plan to book a paperless ticket, enable GPS on your device before you open the app for a smooth experience.
- Stay Near Your Boarding Station: Booking paperless tickets requires proximity to the station, so ensure you’re close enough for the app to verify your location.
- Ensure a Stable Network: A good mobile connection helps with accurate GPS location, so enable both Wi-Fi and mobile data if possible.
Conclusion
While GPS isn’t mandatory for all ticket types on the UTS mobile app, it is essential for paperless ticketing and some location-based validations. Understanding when and why GPS is required can make the ticket-booking process faster and more convenient. So, if you’re planning to book a paperless or location-specific ticket, enable GPS for a hassle-free experience.