Fri Jun 13 06:40:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article based on the provided text:

**Indian Railways Cracks Down on Ticket Bots, Overhauls IRCTC System**

**New Delhi, June 13, 2025:** The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is implementing significant changes to its e-ticketing system to combat fraudulent activity and improve access for genuine passengers. The move comes after the IRCTC processed a record-breaking 31,814 tickets in just 60 seconds on May 22nd, highlighting both the system’s capacity and the immense demand.

The IRCTC’s e-ticketing platform, vital for crores of Indian rail commuters, has been plagued by issues, particularly during peak Tatkal booking hours. The system often slows down or crashes due to overwhelming demand. A primary concern has been the use of automated tools (bots) by unauthorized ticketing agents, rapidly depleting ticket availability for regular passengers.

To address these challenges, the IRCTC has undertaken a major digital overhaul. This includes the implementation of robust anti-bot systems, which have already led to the deactivation of 2.5 crore suspicious user IDs. Website performance has also been improved through the use of a content delivery network.

Furthermore, stricter authentication measures are being introduced. Starting July 1st, Aadhaar authentication will be mandatory for all Tatkal bookings, coupled with OTP-based verification. Authorized agents are now barred from booking Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of the booking window.

“The goal is to provide equitable access to tickets for all passengers,” said an IRCTC spokesperson. “These measures are designed to ensure that the system isn’t exploited and that genuine travelers have a fair chance to book their tickets.”

While these technical fixes are seen as a positive step, experts emphasize that the Indian Railways needs to address the underlying issue of high demand by significantly expanding its train and track capacity. Meeting the burgeoning travel demand will ultimately lessen the need for constant technological tweaks and upgrades in the future. The true test for the Indian Railways will be its ability to move beyond simply technical and administrative solutions, and undertake a fundamental expansion of its services to serve India’s large passenger clientele.

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