Indian Railways has issued a firm reminder regarding the regulations governing platform tickets, emphasizing that their validity is strictly limited to two hours from the time of purchase. This policy is designed to manage station footfall and prevent overcrowding, ensuring that those arriving to drop off or receive passengers do not linger longer than necessary. To ensure you remain compliant with railway rules, keep the following key points in mind:
- Platform tickets are valid for exactly 120 minutes from the moment of purchase.
- The standard cost for a single platform ticket remains ₹10, valid for one person.
- Staying beyond the two-hour limit can result in fines ranging from ₹250 to ₹500.
- Platform tickets are non-refundable and cannot be cancelled.
- Digital bookings are now handled via the RailOne App, which has replaced the UTS mobile application.
Understanding the Penalty Structure
Passengers who remain on station premises after their two-hour window expires are treated as ticketless travelers. Railway officials have clarified that penalties are strictly enforced, with fines starting at ₹250 and potentially reaching ₹500. In certain scenarios, the penalty may also include double the fare of the nearest train, depending on the circumstances. Notably, even if a delay in train arrival causes a passenger to exceed the two-hour limit, they remain liable for the fine, as the ticket validity is tied to the time of purchase rather than the train schedule.
Digital Booking and Security Updates
As part of the ongoing modernization of passenger services, Indian Railways has transitioned to the RailOne App for booking platform, general, and season tickets. This app stores digital tickets with a secure QR code in the ‘My Booking’ section.
Furthermore, as of July 15, 2026, the RailOne App introduced a mandatory Face ID (photo authentication) requirement for all general ticket bookings to enhance security and prevent misuse. It is important to clarify that this biometric requirement applies only to digital bookings; passengers purchasing paper tickets directly from station counters are exempt from this specific verification process. While there was anticipation regarding the launch of an advanced IRCTC website in mid-July 2026 to streamline the booking experience, passengers are currently encouraged to utilize the RailOne App for all their non-reserved ticketing needs to ensure a seamless travel experience.