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- By Prateek Levi
- Sat, 17 May 2025 09:20 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
IRCTC Swarail App: A few months ago, IRCTC introduced a new app called Swarail — developed by the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS). It's being pitched as a “SuperApp” because it brings almost everything IRCTC offers into one place. Compared to the clunky and dated Rail Connect app, Swarail feels like a big step forward.
The app is currently in beta and available to download on both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store. If you already have an IRCTC account, you can log in with the same details. If not, creating a new one is simple.
A Cleaner, Smarter Interface
The app feels refreshingly modern. Unlike older railway apps, Swarail doesn’t make you tap through endless menus. Everything is right where you need it. It also supports Face ID on iPhones and fingerprint login on Android, which makes logging in quick and secure — something you’d expect from a good banking app.
Bookings Are Much Easier Now
Swarail lets you book reserved, unreserved, and platform tickets directly from the app — so you no longer need to wait in long queues or juggle between different tools. Just pick your journey type, enter the from and to stations, choose your date and class, and you’ll get a list of trains, just like on the IRCTC website.
Bonus: Shipment Services (If You Know Where to Look)
Interestingly, the app also has built-in tools for sending shipments, though they’re hidden by default. If you need to send large parcels or goods, you can activate this section:
-Go to the Menu on the bottom bar
-Tap “Show/Hide Services”
-Turn on the toggle for “Large Shipment Services”
Once that’s done, you’ll see new features like:
-Plan Shipment
-Track Shipment
-Freight Calculator
-Freight Terminals
-Freight Routes
Most casual users probably won’t touch this, but for businesses or frequent movers, it’s a solid addition.
Not Just for Booking Tickets
Swarail isn’t just about booking your next train. From the home screen, you can:
-Search trains
-Check PNR status
-See where your coach is located
-Track trains live
-Order food for your journey
-Contact railway support
-Request refunds
-Send in feedback
There’s also a “My Bookings” section that shows all your upcoming and past trips in one place. It’s small, but super useful if you travel regularly.
In Short
Swarail is everything the old IRCTC app wasn’t — fast, simple, and actually pleasant to use. Whether you're booking a ticket, tracking a train, or sending a shipment, it brings everything under one roof. It’s still in beta, so a few kinks may show up, but overall, it’s a big leap in the right direction for Indian Railways' digital experience.