AI-Based Tatkal Ticketing Launched at Begusarai Station; Railways Introduce Revenue-Generating Modular Stalls

Begusarai:
In a major step towards improving passenger convenience and curbing irregularities in Tatkal ticket booking, the Indian Railways has launched an AI-based Tatkal ticketing system at Begusarai railway station under the East Central Railway’s Sonpur Division. The initiative is being implemented as an experimental model and is expected to make Tatkal bookings faster, more transparent and free from middlemen.

Under the new system, facial recognition and Aadhaar-based authentication are being used to issue Tatkal tokens. The AI-enabled system will start functioning daily from 12 midnight, when passengers can collect tokens at the station. Based on these tokens, Tatkal tickets will be booked the following morning.

How the AI System Works
The system allows one Tatkal token per person per day and a maximum of five tokens per Aadhaar card in a month, ensuring fair access for genuine passengers. The Tatkal process will remain active until 11 am, after which same-day Tatkal booking will be closed.

Key features of the system include mobile-less token generation, camera-based face capture, Aadhaar scanning, POS printer-based token issuance, and a staff-controlled calling mechanism. Passengers can arrive at the station after midnight, generate a token through the AI system, and receive their Tatkal ticket strictly as per the token order.

Railway officials said the move will effectively eliminate fraud, long queues, and the role of agents who previously exploited passengers during Tatkal bookings.

Strong Check on Touting and Fraud
By linking Tatkal booking to Aadhaar authentication and facial recognition, the Railways aims to put a complete stop to malpractices and ensure that only genuine passengers benefit from the facility. Officials believe this system will bring transparency and restore public trust in the Tatkal booking process.

10 Modern Modular Stalls to Boost Revenue
In addition to technological upgrades, the Railways has also focused on revenue generation and passenger amenities. Sonpur Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Amit Saran said that 10 modern modular stalls have been set up within the station premises.

These stalls are expected to generate an annual revenue of approximately ₹81 lakh for the Railways. Apart from serving railway passengers, the stalls will also function as a mini-market for local residents living around the station.

The twin initiatives—AI-based Tatkal booking and modular commercial stalls—mark a significant step towards modernization, improved passenger experience, and enhanced non-fare revenue for the Indian Railways at Begusarai station.