Begusarai station starts AI-based tatkal booking, sets up modular stalls to boost non-fare revenue

Patna: Railways has introduced an experimental model at Begusarai station under Sonepur division of East Central Railway (ECR) to boost non-fare revenue (NFR) and enhance passenger amenities. Ten modular commercial stalls offering daily essentials have been set up, aimed at generating Rs81 lakh annually. The station has also launched an AI-based tatkal booking system, ‘Digital Mitra,’ using face recognition and Aadhaar authentication for faster, transparent ticketing and reduced queues.Talking to this newspaper on Thursday, Sonepur divisional railway manager (DRM) Amit Saran said the railways has installed 10 modern modular stalls within Begusarai station premises. These stalls are designed to serve rail passengers and residents near the station, he said, adding they offer daily provisions, textiles, ‘puja’ items, electronics, mobile handsets, and modular furniture.“This initiative marks a major shift in using station space for commercial purposes. The modular design ensures a modern look, efficient space use, and better customer experience. A modular furniture stall is the first in ECR, making Begusarai a pioneer,” DRM said, adding it will also create local jobs and improve access to essentials for passengers and nearby residents.According to Sonepur senior divisional commercial manager (senior DCM) Raushan Kumar, Begusarai is the only ECR station to launch an AI-based passenger reservation system (PRS) counter ‘Digital Mitra’ for tatkal booking. This system aims to end long queues during peak hours, he said.Under the new AI system, passengers can book tatkal tickets for AC and non-AC classes through face recognition linked with Aadhaar authentication. Once identity is verified, booking becomes faster and seamless, reducing manual intervention, senior DCM said, adding AI-driven PRS counters will ensure transparency, fairness, and efficiency in Tatkal bookings, a process often plagued by misuse and delays.