With Diwali around the corner, millions of travelers are looking to book their train tickets through IRCTC. To ensure a smooth and secure experience, Indian Railways has issued the IRCTC Diwali alert. Here’s everything you need to know about booking tickets, avoiding scams, checking prices, and using new services effectively.

New Booking Guidelines

IRCTC now requires Aadhaar-based OTP verification for all bookings, adding a layer of security against fraud. Passengers need to link their Aadhaar to their IRCTC account and verify with OTP while booking tickets online.

How to Identify Fake Agents

Fake agents are a common problem, especially during festive seasons. Some tips to avoid them:

• Book tickets only through the official IRCTC website or app.
• Do not share OTP, passwords, or payment information with third parties.
• Ignore agents promising guaranteed tickets at extra charges.

Train Ticket Scams to Watch Out For

During high-demand periods, scammers often try phishing, fake apps, or fraudulent email links. Always check URLs, use official apps, and monitor your bank statements after transactions.

Travel Trends and Price Comparisons

Diwali is one of the busiest travel periods. Ticket prices vary by class and train type. Premium trains may cost slightly more but often offer better amenities and fewer cancellations. IRCTC also announces seasonal offers for online payments, which can help save costs.

Live Updates and Services

IRCTC now provides live train status updates and seat availability notifications through its app and website. Travelers are advised to set alerts for their routes to book tickets as soon as slots open.

Disclaimer

This article is based on official IRCTC announcements and general travel advisories. Ticket availability and prices may change rapidly, and travelers should verify details on official platforms before making bookings.