Indian Railways has officially streamlined the process for purchasing platform tickets through the RailOne mobile application to ensure a seamless experience for visitors at railway stations. As part of a broader effort to modernize passenger services, the RailOne app, developed by the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS), has now replaced the UTS app. This digital transition aims to help passengers avoid hefty penalties by providing a quick and efficient way to secure entry permits for station premises.
Key updates for passengers include:
- Platform ticket penalty increased to ₹500, effective from June 2026.
- Digital booking via RailOne offers a 3% discount or cashback until March 31, 2027.
- Mandatory photo ID required for unreserved general tickets starting July 15, 2026.
- Platform tickets remain valid for two hours and are strictly for station access, not travel.
Understanding the New Digital Booking Process
Booking a platform ticket is now a straightforward task. Users simply need to log into the RailOne app, navigate to the “Journey Planner” section, select “Platform Ticket,” choose the desired station, and complete the payment using their preferred digital method. Passengers are reminded that these tickets are non-transferable and station-specific. While the app makes entry easier, users must be aware that platform tickets do not grant permission to board trains. If a passenger is found without a valid travel ticket, they may be liable for both the platform ticket cost and the applicable travel fare.
Important Updates on Fines and Travel Regulations
Starting June 2026, the penalty for entering station premises without a valid ticket has been hiked to a minimum of ₹500, up from the previous ₹250. Furthermore, Indian Railways has introduced stricter verification protocols. Effective July 15, 2026, all unreserved general tickets must be booked using a valid photo ID. Passengers are required to carry the original ID document during their journey for verification by Ticket Examiners (TTEs). Please note that digital screenshots of IDs will not be accepted as valid proof of travel.
Whether you are heading to the station to pick up a loved one or dropping off a passenger, utilizing the RailOne app ensures you remain compliant with the latest railway regulations while enjoying convenient digital benefits.