The efficiency of the UTS ticket booking app, used for Mumbai local trains and other railway services, has been a topic of discussion multiple times, usually concluding that the app functions well and is fair in its features. However, a recent post on X (previously known as Twitter) by a man brought attention to a common issue with the app that many regular commuters can relate to.
In his X post, the passenger shared his disappointment with the UTS app just before his journey. He expressed his frustration with the app's limitations in allowing ticket bookings when close to the train track or already at the railway station. He suggested the need for an updated feature that would enable instant ticket bookings without the requirement for scanning at the station, even when passengers are already on-site. However, reports suggest that such a feature is currently unavailable due to concerns over alleged irregularities detected by officials during checks.
Blaming the app developers for the situation, the man, known as Venkat, revealed that he missed his long-distance train due to the app's restrictions. He criticised the app creators for not listening to user feedback and for not addressing ongoing issues. Venkat emphasised, "I couldn't board because I had to step out to scan the QR code, preventing me from booking the ticket.
"This is the result of officials in air-conditioned rooms being disconnected from real-world experiences." Further elaborating on Venkat's post, he shared a screenshot of the app to explain the problem clearly. He tried to book an unreserved journey ticket for an MMTS coach travelling between Lingampalli and Bharat Nagar stations in Hyderabad, Telangana, which cost Rs. 35.
He refused to board a train in front of him to honour his ticket, saying, "My long-distance train arrived, and a local train is leaving from the neighbouring station. I couldn't board." The post received over 2,50,000 social media views on March 19. It asked users to rate the app's features, functionality, and efficacy. Many supported Venkat and shared app issues, although some proposed improving the feature to combat malpractices by instant paperless ticketing.
On the other hand, a few users defended the government and the app's concept, highlighting the importance of improving the app's security measures. Among the diverse responses, some individuals criticised Venkat for his negative remarks towards railway authorities, calling for respectful communication in online interactions.
My long distance train arrived and there is a local train ready to depart from the adjacent platform. I couldn't board that because I had to go out to scan the QR code as this app didn't allow me to book the ticket.
This is what happens when the babus sitting in the AC rooms… pic.twitter.com/pme5UbVymT
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