After promising us SMS based ticket booking system to be flagged of on 1st July, details about how to get it working has now been explained. A report on the NextBigWhat explains how the system can be used via text messages; USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data for airtel users), or a Java-based app. The move is aimed to make the service available to all kind of users — those with no access to internet, or those who can access the web but are stuck with a feature phone. Smartphone users can always use the IRCTC mobile site, or apps such as ngpay, among others.
To use the USSD, you will need an airtel money account to make payments. Dial *400# from your handset and follow the suggested instructions. The booking confirmation SMS from IRCTC along with a photo ID is enough for you to travel with.
Others using internet need to dial 139* after registering your mobile number with IRCTC and your bank. You'll get a MMID (Mobile Money Identifier) from the bank along with an OTP (one time password) to authorise payments. To check out which banks offer the facility, click here. Follow the instructions as explained in the SMSes. The entire exercise involves sending two texts, with each costing Rs 3. Bookings up to Rs 5000 will need you to fork our Rs 5 as processing charges. BSNL users on the other hand, get a dedicated app to make bookings
For SMS based bookings, you will need to register with m-wallet alongside IRCTC. Send START to 5676717, and follow the instructions as directed. These SMSes also cost Rs 3 each, but attract now processing fees.
If you prefer bus travels instead, the MakeMyTrip can come to your rescue. The official press release states that the website offers "Bus tickets for 1300+ operators over 12,000 + routes across India including the inventory for Punbus/Punjab Roadways, GSRTC, Goa and Bihar Road Transport Corporation and Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation". To avail the service, text @mbus <From-City> <To-City> <Date-of-Travel> <No of Passengers> to 9664896648 and options will come to you by SMS. From there on, just follow the instructions and you can then enjoy your happy vacation.
So where do you plan to head for your weekend break?
