NEW DELHI – Indian Railways has witnessed a dramatic surge in passenger ticket bookings over the past three years, driven by a sharp increase in online reservations, according to data presented to the Lok Sabha on Wednesday. Ticket bookings soared to 279.58 crore (2.79 billion) in the 2023-24 fiscal year, more than double the 131.69 crore recorded in 2021-22, a period heavily impacted by COVID-19 travel restrictions.
The Railway Ministry attributed the growth to the increasing popularity of online bookings through the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). “IRCTC has provided the facility to book reserved tickets online, saving passengers from the botheration of going to reservation counters,” the ministry stated, highlighting the convenience and reduced travel time.
Currently, over 80% of reserved tickets are booked online, although counter bookings remain available at the same fare. The surge in passenger numbers has translated into significant revenue growth. Ticket sales generated Rs 70,693 crore ($8.48 billion) in 2023-24, compared to Rs 39,214 crore in 2021-22 and Rs 63,417 crore in 2022-23.
The ministry also addressed passenger safety, confirming compensation under the Railways Act of 1989 for accident victims and providing an ex gratia relief. Online ticket buyers can also opt for travel insurance through the Optional Travel Insurance Scheme (OTIS).
“This scheme is purely optional in nature,” the ministry clarified, allowing passengers to secure financial protection in case of accidents. The data underscores the increasing reliance on digital platforms for travel in India, with online railway bookings now a dominant trend.
