IRCTC vs RailOne: Choosing the Right Train Ticket Booking App for You
For years, IRCTC has been the go-to platform for booking train tickets in India. However, Indian Railways has now introduced a new all-in-one app called RailOne, developed by the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS). This app is rapidly gaining popularity among travellers. Let us explore the key differences between IRCTC and RailOne to help you decide which one suits your needs better.
How Do IRCTC and RailOne Differ?
While IRCTC remains the preferred choice for booking reserved and tatkal tickets, RailOne offers a much broader range of services. It is designed to consolidate multiple railway services into a single platform, moving beyond just reserved ticketing.
Unreserved Ticketing Made Easy
One of the standout features of RailOne is its ability to handle unreserved tickets. You can book tickets for general coaches, platform tickets, and even local train tickets directly through the app. This eliminates the need for separate apps or standing in long queues at stations.
Integration of UTS Features
Previously, unreserved ticketing was managed through the UTS app. Indian Railways is now gradually merging those functionalities into RailOne, making it a more comprehensive solution for daily commuters and occasional travellers alike.
Key Advantages of Using RailOne
If you travel frequently by train, RailOne offers several practical benefits that can simplify your journey.
- Faster Booking for General Tickets: When purchasing general or unreserved tickets, RailOne processes transactions noticeably quicker than IRCTC.
- No More Station Queues: You can buy general tickets from anywhere, saving time and hassle. This is especially useful for daily commuters who need tickets on the go.
- Save Passenger Profiles: The app allows you to store traveller details in advance, speeding up the booking process significantly.
- Single Sign-On Convenience: You can log in using your existing IRCTC or UTS account credentials, making the transition seamless.
- All Services in One Place: RailOne brings together live train tracking, PNR status checks, coach position information, and even food ordering into a single interface.
Which App Should You Choose?
The answer depends on your specific travel habits. If you primarily book reserved or tatkal tickets, IRCTC remains the more stable and reliable option. During peak hours, such as early morning tatkal bookings, IRCTC is still considered safer due to its established infrastructure.
On the other hand, RailOne is a newer app and may occasionally experience technical glitches or payment issues. However, if you value having all railway services—from general tickets to live tracking and food orders—in one app, RailOne is an excellent all-in-one choice for your smartphone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who developed the RailOne app?
RailOne was created by the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS), the technology arm of Indian Railways.
Can I book a general ticket using RailOne?
Yes, you can easily book general class tickets and platform tickets through the RailOne app.
Which app is better for tatkal tickets?
For tatkal ticket bookings, IRCTC is still widely regarded as the more secure and dependable platform.
