Bihar’s Empty Trains: How Aadhar Rules Are Changing Tatkal Bookings
Okay, here’s something wild—trains to Bihar that used to be packed tighter than Mumbai locals during rush hour are suddenly showing empty seats. And it’s all because of this new Tatkal rule that kicked in last month. Let me break it down for you.
What’s Changed?
From July 1st, you can’t just waltz in and book a last-minute Tatkal ticket anymore. Nope. Now you gotta have your Aadhar linked to your phone or email. The railways say it’s to stop those shady ticket touts—you know, the guys who’d hoard tickets and sell them at triple price outside stations.
But here’s the thing: while it sounds good on paper, the rollout’s been… messy. Especially in Bihar.
Why Bihar’s Getting Hit Hard
Patna-Delhi route? Usually you’d need a miracle to get tickets. Now? You can practically book a whole compartment to yourself. Here’s why:
- Nobody told us! Seriously, half the travelers I spoke to at Patna Junction had no clue about the new rule until they were at the counter.
- Tech troubles: Getting that Aadhar-OTP dance right when you’re in a panic to book tickets? Not happening for most folks.
And get this—some station masters are reporting 30% fewer Tatkal bookings on busy routes. Thirty percent! That’s like finding parking in Delhi—it just doesn’t happen.
What People Are Saying
The complaints are pouring in faster than chai at a railway stall:
- “My phone’s registered to my son in Pune—how am I supposed to get the OTP?” (heard this from at least three uncles)
- One guy missed his own father’s funeral because his Aadhar was linked to an old number
But the railways? They’re standing firm. “Short-term pain for long-term gain,” some official said on TV yesterday. Easy for him to say—he’s probably got a staff quota ticket.
So What Can You Do?
If you’re staring at your phone wondering how to book tickets now:
- General quota’s still there, but good luck with that
- Those IRCTC-approved agents might help—if you can find a legit one
Here’s my two cents: link your Aadhar NOW. Don’t wait till you need tickets. Because let’s be real—when has anything government-related worked smoothly at the last minute?
The Bigger Picture
This whole thing’s got me thinking—yeah, stopping touts is great. But at what cost? There’s gotta be a better way that doesn’t leave regular folks stranded. Maybe more counters to help with Aadhar linking at stations? Or at least some proper awareness campaigns?
For now though, if you’re planning to travel, do yourself a favor—check your Aadhar details today. Because that 8AM Shatabdi to Delhi won’t wait for your OTP to come through.
Quick Answers
Q: Can I skip the Aadhar thing?
Nope. No way around it now.
Q: Why’s Bihar different?
Lots of last-minute travelers, lots of unlinked Aadhars. Simple as that.
Q: My village uncle doesn’t have email—what now?
Better take him to the Aadhar center before travel season hits.
Source: News18 Hindi – Nation