TQWL Means in Railways: If you frequently travel by train and use the Tatkal ticket booking facility, then this news is crucial for you. Starting 1st July 2025, Indian Railways has introduced a new rule for Tatkal ticket bookings. Now, only users whose Aadhaar is linked to their IRCTC account can book Tatkal tickets and from 15th July 2025, OTP verification based on Aadhaar has become mandatory.
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What Has Changed in Tatkal Booking?
Indian Railways serves millions of passengers daily. However, on certain busy routes, especially in states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, getting a confirmed ticket close to the travel date is often difficult. That’s why the Tatkal scheme exists — allowing passengers to book tickets one day prior. But now, Indian Railways has tightened the rules to prevent misuse and improve transparency.
New Rules from July 2025:
- From 1st July 2025, only users with Aadhaar linked to their IRCTC account can book Tatkal tickets.
- From 15th July 2025, passengers must complete OTP verification (sent to their Aadhaar-linked mobile number) before booking.
- This move targets eliminating agent misuse and fraud bookings.
New Restrictions for Agents:
- For AC Class Tatkal Tickets:
Booking Time: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Agents cannot book from 10:00 to 10:30 AM - For Non-AC Class Tatkal Tickets:
Booking Time: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Agents cannot book from 11:00 to 11:30 AM
This gives general passengers a 30-minute early advantage, increasing the chance of getting a confirmed Tatkal ticket.
How to Book Tatkal Tickets Now:
Step 1
Go to the official IRCTC website: www.irctc.co.in or open the IRCTC app.
Click “Login” and sign in with your IRCTC ID and password.
Step 2
Select your source station, destination, and journey date.
Under “Quota,” select Tatkal from the dropdown.
Step 3
Choose your preferred train and class (AC or Non-AC).
Click “Book Now” and enter passenger details.
Enter the OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
Make payment and your ticket is booked!
Final Thoughts:
Indian Railways’ new Tatkal booking rules aim to make the process more secure, fair, and transparent. With Aadhaar-linked accounts and OTP verification, genuine passengers now have a better chance to get confirmed tickets.
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