Known globally for its vast network and historical significance, the Indian Railways has come a long way. Over the past few years, Indian Railways, which is the third largest railway network in the world by size, has undergone significant transformation. Adoption of technology-enhanced services, online train ticket booking, real-time tracking, instant PNR enquiry and Wi-Fi-enabled trains are measures that aimed at upgrading the passenger experience and operational efficiency. And they surely did!
Indian Railways: The Backbone of the Nation’s Economy
Railways have forever been an integral part of a nation’s progress. Employing over 1.3 million people, in the financial year 2020-21, the railways took 8.1 billion passengers apart from hauling 1.23 billion tonnes of freight. Being such a major component of the economy, the need to create an innovative environment and user-friendly mobility system is very much in order.
A New Era for Indian Railways
Indian Railways is gradually, yet steadily coming out of various outdated systems. It is continuously adopting digitization in almost all aspects such as passenger data systems, train signals, predictive maintenance, ground control systems, and online train ticket booking methods.
It is estimated that by 2050, India will contribute almost 40% to the global rail activity. This will present significant opportunities for the online ticket booking platform industry in the country. This substantial share signifies immense potential for growth and expansion in the sector.
Role of Online Booking Platforms
It is estimated that about 23 million people use the railways on a daily basis. These numbers are only going to increase. The establishment of IRCTC, Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation in 2002, was indeed a highlight in Indian railways history. From 29 bookings in a day to over 13 lakh tickets today, IRCTC has come a long way. With time, a number of online booking platforms made travel booking easier and simpler.
While IRCTC is the sole government-operated ticketing platform for railways, private entities started venturing into India’s online train ticket booking sector in the early 2000s. Train ticketing emerged as one of the rapidly expanding segments within the online ticketing industry.
These platforms not just save your time and energy, but can greatly improve your overall travel experience. By automating procedures and reducing expenses, the train booking system has the potential to enhance its operational efficiency. The right platform can streamline everyday operations. The railways can greatly reduce the manual work and manage all its booking in one place.
Implementing automation for the mundane aspects of the booking business can significantly help the Indian railways enhance their operational efficiency, thereby boosting profitability in the long run.
redRail: Helping Indian Railways Undergo a Digital Makeover
redRail is indeed one of the most popular names when it comes to online train ticket booking platforms. The redRail portal is not just well illustrated and simple to use, but it also makes your ticket booking experience convenient and easy. Let’s take a look at how readRail with its intuitive design and features can help you manage your bookings:
- Book tickets in advance
There are a number of ticket types that you can choose from, especially when you book your tickets in advance. Be it one-way or a round trip, you can choose your travel date and time easily. - Book from the comfort of your home
The days of standing in long queues to book a train ticket are long gone. From the comfort of your home, work or car, you can book your tickets at any time you want. All you need is your smartphone. - Easily manage all your bookings
redRail helps you with more than just online train ticket booking. Once the booking is done, you will receive a confirmation along with the travel details. You also have the option of changing/ cancelling your tickets/seats. The proactive redRail customer care is at your service 24X7. From PNR enquiry to real-time train running status, you can get every information, in just a few clicks. - Making payments is safe
redRail is an IRCTC-authorised ticket booking platform where you can make payments without having to worry about fraud.
redRail, offered by redBus, serves as a comprehensive e-booking platform for railways. Its primary role is to be a crucial facilitator and supporter, catering to all your train travel requirements, encompassing train and station selection, transparent transactions, and seamless customer care.
The Bottom Line
Digitalizing the railway system in India isn’t merely a buzzword or a trend. It’s a profound evolution promising vast potential for the nation’s railway infrastructure. Indian Railways, transitioning with advanced signalling and future-proof technologies, aims for a safer, efficient, and passenger-focused experience.
At redRail we strive to play a major role in the digital transformation of Indian Railways. We know that we have a long road ahead of us, but we work tirelessly to redefine our railway landscape, showcasing innovation globally.
