No CAPTCHAs, faster checkout: IRCTC rolls out beta website

CHENNAI: The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is set to launch an upgraded version of its ticket booking website with several user-friendly features aimed at making the reservation process faster and more convenient, according to a Daily Thanthi report.

At present, passengers book railway tickets through the IRCTC website and mobile application. Railway officials said that more than 82 per cent of all ticket bookings are carried out through the IRCTC website.

The IRCTC website was first launched in 2002 and currently handles an average of around 14.5 lakh ticket bookings per day.

However, passengers have frequently complained about technical issues, particularly during Tatkal bookings, when the portal often experiences server congestion due to heavy demand.

New website under testing

According to the report, the upgraded website has been developed and is currently undergoing preliminary testing before its public launch.

Southern Railway officials said the revamped platform is expected to significantly improve the overall booking experience by reducing delays and simplifying the reservation process.

Passengers have also raised concerns about CAPTCHA verification, stating that the codes are often difficult to read and enter correctly. In many cases, booking attempts fail because of technical glitches, resulting in passengers losing the opportunity to secure tickets, especially under the Tatkal quota.

Key Changes

1. No unnecessary CAPTCHAs
   Removes CAPTCHAs, pop-ups and flashing graphics for a smoother experience.

2. Single-screen seat view
   Displays seat availability across all travel classes on one page.

3. Faster checkout
   Reduces the number of steps required to complete a ticket booking.

4. Saved passenger details
   Stores passenger information to make repeat bookings quicker and easier.

Railway Ministry officials said the website of the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is accessible from 9 pm on July 15, 2026, and urged users to provide feedback on its simplified features.

A link to the beta version has also been provided on the homepage of the existing website, the ministry said. "The beta version will also enable users to provide feedback on further improvements, which can be incorporated in future releases to enhance customer satisfaction," the ministry said.

(With PTI inputs)