IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) is the most popular and official platform for ticket booking for rail travel in India. But sometimes due to technical problems, IRCTC website and mobile app go down, due to which passengers face difficulty in booking or canceling tickets. This problem often occurs due to high traffic or system updates.
In this article, we will give detailed information about the problem of IRCTC website and app being down. Also, in this situation, we will also tell you about alternative ways to book or cancel tickets. This information will be very useful for passengers, especially when they suddenly face this kind of problem.
IRCTC Down: A Brief Introduction
IRCTC’s website and app being down means that users are not able to log in to these platforms or use services like ticket booking, cancellation. This problem can last from a few minutes to several hours. During this period, passengers have to face a lot of trouble, especially when they need to book Tatkal tickets.
Main reasons for IRCTC being down
- Server overload: Due to excessive traffic the load on the server increases.
- Technical failure: A problem with the hardware or software.
- System updates: During new features or security updates.
- Cyber Attack: Due to hacking or DDoS attack.
- Network Issue: Problem with internet connectivity.
What to do if IRCTC is down?
When IRCTC website or app is not working, passengers can take the following steps:
- Wait and try again: Try logging in again after a few minutes.
- Clear browser cache: Clear your web browser’s cache and cookies.
- Use another device: Try a website instead of a mobile app, or vice versa.
- Contact IRCTC Helpline: Get information about the issue.
- Check Social Media Updates: Visit the official social media handles of IRCTC.
Alternative ways to book tickets when IRCTC is down
When the IRCTC website or app is not working, passengers can book tickets through the following alternative methods:
1. Booking from railway station counter
- The most traditional and reliable method.
- Potential for long lines and wasted time.
- May not be available 24×7.
2. IRCTC Rail Connect App
- Second official app of IRCTC.
- Can work even when the main app is down.
- Less features but useful for basic booking.
3. Authorized Ticket Booking Agent
- IRCTC approved agent.
- Additional service charges may apply.
- Important to choose a reliable agent.
4. Bank website or app
- Some banks provide IRCTC ticket booking facility.
- Payment directly from your bank account.
- Limited features but useful in emergency situations.
5. IRCTC toll free number
- Facility to book tickets over phone.
- Potential for long wait times.
- May be available for a limited time.
Ways to cancel ticket when IRCTC is down
Ticket cancellation is also an important facility which may get affected if IRCTC is down. In such a situation, passengers can use the following options:
- Railway Station Counter: Carry your ID proof and ticket.
- 139 Helpline: Facility to cancel tickets over phone.
- Bank Website/App: Some banks offer ticket cancellation facility.
- Authorized Agent: Contact IRCTC Authorized Agent.
- IRCTC Customer Care: Contact by email or phone.
Preparation for travel in case of IRCTC down
Keep the following things in mind as you prepare to travel when IRCTC is down:
- Book on time: Avoid last minute booking.
- Make alternative plans: Consider other travel options.
- Keep emergency contacts: Save IRCTC helpline numbers.
- Travel Insurance: Take out travel insurance for uncertainty.
- Flexible Plan: Be open to changing travel dates.
Overview of IRCTC services
| Service | Description |
| e-ticketing | online train ticket booking |
| tatkal ticket | Ticket booking on Tatkal basis |
| catering service | food arrangement in train |
| tourism package | Packages for various tourist destinations |
| loyalty program | Rewards for frequent travelers |
| insurance | travel insurance facility |
| hotel booking | Hotel booking during travel |
| bus ticket | intercity bus ticket booking |
Tips to avoid IRCTC going down
- Book during off-peak times: Book at night or early in the morning.
- Have multiple devices: Have both mobile and desktop ready.
- Check Internet Connection: Use stable and fast internet.
- Keep the latest app version: Update IRCTC app regularly.
- Save account details: Keep login information safe.
Common problems and solutions when IRCTC is down
- login issue
- Solution: Reset password or create a new account.
- payment failure
- Solution: Choose another payment option or contact the bank.
- No seat availability visible
- Solution: Check again after some time or call 139.
- captcha not loading
- Solution: Refresh the browser or use another browser.
- Transaction history not visible
- Solution: Contact IRCTC Customer Care.
Important information about IRCTC
IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) is a subsidiary of Indian Railways which was established in 1999. It works under the Ministry of Railways of the Government of India. The main responsibilities of IRCTC are:
- Online Ticket Booking: E-ticketing service for rail travel across the country.
- Catering Services: Supply of food and beverages on trains and stations.
- Tourism: Tour packages and hotel booking services.
- Bottled Water: Packaged drinking water under the brand ‘Rail Neer’.
- Internet Ticketing: Ticket booking through website and mobile app.
The IRCTC website is one of the largest e-commerce websites in the world, handling millions of ticket bookings every day.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Although we have attempted to provide accurate and up-to-date information, IRCTC’s services and policies may change from time to time. Please visit IRCTC official website or contact customer care for the most recent and official information. We are not responsible for any decisions or actions taken based on the information provided in this article.
