Traveling by train? Make sure to carry your original ID; strict railway checks begin on October 1..
One Ticket, One Original ID! Merely showing the ticket will no longer suffice for train travel; the Railways are set to strictly verify passengers' documents as well. If you are planning to travel by train, this information is crucial for you.
Central Railway will conduct a special ticket-checking drive from October 1 to October 31. During this period, passengers' original ID proofs will be checked alongside their tickets. Notably, documents belonging to passengers who have booked tickets under concession quotas, e-passes, or other concessional schemes will also be scrutinized. The Railways aims to ensure that these facilities are being utilized by the intended beneficiaries.
The objective of this campaign is to curb the use of fake tickets, prevent the unauthorized claiming of concessions, and stop revenue losses for the Railways. Therefore, if you are traveling by train, ensure you carry your original ID and any relevant documents related to your concession—especially if you have booked your ticket under a special quota or pass.
**ID Mandatory for Passengers Traveling on a Single Ticket**
If multiple passengers are traveling on a single ticket, at least one person in the group must possess a valid ID proof. This rule applies to both regular tickets and those booked under concessional schemes. Failure to produce the required ID during a ticket check could result in all passengers on that ticket being treated as traveling without a valid ticket, potentially leading to the imposition of fines.
Passengers availing concessions or traveling under special quotas will also undergo ID verification. In other words, simply showing the ticket will not be enough; authorities may also verify whether the passenger is actually eligible for the specific concession or quota.
**ID Mandatory for e-Pass and PTO Holders**
Railway employees and their families often travel for free or at reduced fares using e-Passes or Privilege Ticket Orders (PTOs). Strict ID verification rules have been implemented for these passengers as well. According to Central Railway, passengers traveling on an e-Pass or PTO must carry their original ID proof throughout the journey. It is also mandatory to properly convert the e-Pass or PTO into an 'Authority to Travel' before boarding the train. Failure to complete this process could result in penalties or other actions similar to those for traveling without a valid ticket.
**Unreserved tickets also subject to scrutiny**
Railway inspections will not be limited to reserved or concessional tickets; unreserved tickets will also be checked. If a ticket appears suspicious, railway staff can verify it on the spot using the TTE app. The objective is to curb the use of fake tickets, prevent the unauthorized claiming of concessions, and stop the misuse of passes. Additionally, the move aims to minimize revenue loss for the railways.
**What should passengers do?**
Passengers should keep a few things in mind ahead of October 1st. Always carry a valid, original ID proof during the journey. Thoroughly understand the concessions applicable to your ticket and the associated terms and conditions. If you are traveling using a pass or concession, complete the necessary documentation formalities before boarding the train.
Ticket and ID checks may be conducted more rigorously during October; therefore, it is advisable to keep all necessary documents handy before traveling.
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