Scheduled to launch in December 2024
Indian Railways plans to launch a “super app” by December to simplify travel services. The app will allow passengers to book tickets, buy platform passes, track trains, and more, all in one place. Developed by the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS), it will integrate with IRCTC systems for a seamless experience.
Unifying Services on a Single Platform
Currently, railway passengers rely on multiple apps for different services, leading to a fragmented digital experience. Apps like IRCTC Rail Connect, IRCTC eCatering, Rail Madad, UTS, and the National Train Enquiry System each serve specific purposes. The new super app aims to bring all these services together in one unified platform.
As an official explained, “IRCTC will continue as the interface between CRIS and passengers buying train tickets. Integration between the planned super app and IRCTC is underway.” By combining these apps into one, Indian Railways hopes to simplify access for users, streamlining multiple services into a single, easy-to-use application.
IRCTC’s Role and Revenue Opportunity
IRCTC Rail Connect, the most popular railway app with over 100 million downloads, holds exclusive rights for reserved ticket bookings. The new super app is set to boost revenue, with IRCTC enhancing its infrastructure to support the platform.
A senior IRCTC official mentioned, “IRCTC sees the super app as another avenue for earnings.” With IRCTC remaining a central player, the new app’s features may help IRCTC further strengthen its financial position and service offerings.
CRIS, which develops key software for Indian Railways, will lead the super app’s development in partnership with IRCTC. Known for supporting railway operations with advanced technology, CRIS aims to enhance passenger service and accessibility with a user-friendly app that integrates essential travel services.
Indian Railways’ planned super app is a significant step toward digitizing and consolidating its passenger services into one platform. With IRCTC as the interface for ticketing and CRIS managing the technical development, the new app is set to enhance the ease of travel for millions of passengers across India. As Indian Railways progresses with the integration, passengers can look forward to a more unified, efficient digital experience by year-end.