The IRCTC app will now allow users to book bus seats

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has announced the launch of an intercity bus ticket service on its platform in conjunction with RedBus. Users can choose from a group of more than 2,600 private bus operators and nearly 24,000 daily buses on their platform provided by RedBus nationwide. The IRCTC says in its release that the merger will enable them to hold 12 lakh bus seats daily including sleepers / sleepers, AC / non-AC buses.

The IRCTC Rail Connect app will soon include integration again. Users will be able to access features such as services available on the bus, the ability to select rides and dump points. Also, they will have the option of selecting buses that fall under the redBus Safety + system which helps passengers choose the safest bus on their route. They will be provided with details such as the bus number and contact details of the bus crew before departure.

There has been an increase in online booking of buses since it became free in September 2020 as travelers choose to book tickets online, instead of buying them over the counter to avoid the risk of getting the novel coronavirus, according to RedBus. Statistics show that there has been an online booking outbreak from 2 and 3 cities that has contributed to 62 percent of current bookings on redBus. There has been a 6 percent increase compared to bookings in the previous Covid period.

“RedBus is pleased to work with IRCTC to provide travelers with safe and secure bus booking routes. IRCTC is the preferred platform for millions of travelers to book their train tickets, and now with the integration of redBus within the website and the IRCTC app, IRCTC customers have access to a wide range of bus options to complete their journey. Booking online bus tickets has been a huge demand during the epidemic, especially in the big cities and two and the organization is serving as an incentive to increase fuel efficiency in the industry, ”Prakash Sangam, RedBus chief executive officer, said in a statement.

The bus booking service was already available at IRCTC earlier this year on their website. However, they will reach a larger audience with the redBus integration.