Indian Railways is introducing a groundbreaking feature for online train ticket booking through the IRCTC platform—Autopay. This innovation, available exclusively on the IRCTC-enabled I-Pay payment gateway, offers users the convenience of reserving electronic tickets without immediate payment.
The Autopay feature by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd is compatible with debit cards, credit cards, and unified payment interfaces (UPIs), providing a seamless and efficient booking experience for users.
This feature proves particularly advantageous in scenarios such as when a waitlisted regular or Tatkal ticket is booked, and payment is deducted from the user’s account. In cases of “Berth choice not met” or “No Room” situations, Autopay becomes a preferred option.
Here are some key situations where Autopay shines:
- Unsuccessful E-ticket Booking: If an e-ticket is not booked even after payment deduction due to reasons like “Berth choice not met” or “No Room,” Autopay ensures an advantageous outcome.
- Tatkal Waitlist Scenarios: For Tatkal waitlisted e-tickets still on the waitlist after chart preparation, only applicable fees are deducted. The Autopay amount is returned, providing users financial flexibility.
- Waitlisted Ticket Confirmation: If a waitlisted ticket is confirmed, the deducted amount is refunded within three to four business days if a confirmed ticket is not assigned. This enables users to explore alternative transportation modes without extra payment.
To make the most of the Autopay feature, users can follow these steps:
Step 1: Enter travel details on the IRCTC app or website, choose the train coach, and input traveler information.
Step 2: Select the relevant button to pay for the chosen train coach. Opt for the “iPay” payment gateway and choose Autopay among the available options, including credit card, debit card, and UPI. Enter the required information, and the bank will place the funds under lien until ticket purchase confirmation.
This user-friendly feature not only streamlines the booking process but also ensures that users pay only for confirmed tickets, eliminating unnecessary hassles and providing instant refunds in various scenarios.
