The UTS (Unreserved Ticketing System) app by Indian Railways has made it much easier for commuters to book unreserved tickets from their smartphones. However, the app has specific restrictions that limit where you can book a ticket. Many travelers wonder if there’s any trick to book a UTS ticket when they’re near the railway tracks, away from stations. Let’s explore how the UTS app works, why these restrictions exist, and whether any techniques might help you book a ticket in such situations.
How the UTS App Works and Why It Has Restrictions
The UTS app was introduced to streamline the booking of unreserved tickets, including general, platform, and season tickets. This service aims to make ticketing hassle-free, helping passengers avoid long queues at ticket counters. One of its convenient features is the ability to issue paperless tickets, which can be displayed on the phone screen, making it an eco-friendly option for commuters.
However, the app has strict location-based restrictions. When booking, the UTS app uses GPS to determine if you’re within a certain distance of a railway station, usually about 2-5 kilometers depending on the station and route. This restriction prevents passengers from booking tickets once they are already on a train or too far from a station. The location-based feature ensures passengers are purchasing tickets legally and before starting their journey.
Is There a Trick to Booking a UTS Ticket Near the Tracks?
Technically, there’s no “trick” that bypasses the app’s location-based restrictions. Since the GPS location is an in-built security feature, the app will detect if you’re far from a station and won’t allow you to proceed with booking.
However, here are a few practical tips that may help if you’re in a situation where you’re close to the tracks but still outside the app’s usual range:
- Move Closer to the Station Area: If you’re near a railway station, moving closer to the station may allow you to connect to the GPS-defined area where booking is allowed. Standing near the station’s vicinity but not necessarily inside it might let you access the booking feature.
- Try Booking in Advance: Planning is key. Since UTS tickets are valid for a few hours, try to book your ticket while you’re still within the station or designated area before moving too far away. For most stations, you’ll have a two-hour validity window for your ticket, so booking in advance helps ensure you have a valid ticket even if you’re traveling close to the tracks.
- Use Offline Mode (if Available): In some cases, the app’s offline mode for already-purchased tickets may allow you to display a ticket without needing to revalidate GPS. Ensure your ticket is booked and stored on your device when within range, as this can save you from connectivity issues along the tracks.
Things to Avoid
Attempting to bypass the app’s location verification with “workarounds” could result in fines or penalties if you’re caught traveling without a valid ticket. Railway authorities monitor ticketing closely, so booking tickets within the app’s guidelines is always the safest option.
Final Thoughts
While the UTS app has restrictions that prevent booking far from stations or on the move, the best “trick” is to book in advance when near or inside the station premises. Indian Railways has put these measures in place to ensure fair travel practices and prevent unauthorized travel. By understanding the app’s functionality and planning accordingly, you can make the most of the UTS app and enjoy a smoother journey.