Business Sandesh Indian Newspaper | Articles | Opinion Pieces | Research Studies | Findings & News | Sandesh News
redRail, the rail ticketing platform from redBus and an IRCTC authorised partner, is the first brand in the country to offer a comprehensive range of rail information on the nation’s most preferred, free-to-use, call and messaging service – WhatsApp. Any of the 500 mn+ WhatsApp users in India can access information by chatting with redRail’s innovative ‘Railbot’ or via the redRail app.
This industry-first feature enables travellers and non-travellers alike to effortlessly access real-time train information, transforming the way people stay informed about their train journeys. Passengers can now effortlessly access updates on their journeys including Live Train Status, PNR Status Movements, Coach Position, Platform Number, and Train Schedule.
By integrating Rail Information Services (RIS) to its WhatsApp Railbot, redRail has the potential to redefine rail booking experience for the 22 million passengers who travel by train every day. One of the most significant advantages of this service is its simplicity. Users require no additional app installation or memory space apart from WhatsApp. This not only saves mobile data and battery power but also ensures that travellers can easily obtain the running status of their train and updates on their train journey with minimal effort. Even people from smaller towns or those less used to apps are comfortable with operating Whatsapp, which increases rail information accessibility.
“redRail’s launch of the ‘Railbot’ with WhatsApp integration is a reflection of our effort to enhance the rail travel landscape and passenger experience by leveraging technology to develop user friendly applications. This innovative feature addresses the long-standing customer need of accessing real-time train information in an easy and convenient manner. This unique initiative positions redRail as a leader in customer service and accessibility, given that many of the rail passengers are not necessarily digitally savvy, but do use Whatsapp extensively” said Prakash Sangam, CEO, redBus.
Key Features of redRail’s railBot, via WhatsApp
Live Train Status: Get real-time updates on your train’s running status, ensuring you’re always in the know about any delays or changes.
PNR Status: Check the status of your Passenger Name Record (PNR) effortlessly, providing peace of mind before your journey.
Coach Position & Platform Number: Find out exactly where your coach will be located and the platform number for your train, making your boarding experience seamless.
Train Schedule: Access the complete train schedule, so you can plan your journey with precision.
How it Works: Users have two convenient ways to access WhatsApp updates of Railway Information Services:
Option 1: redRail’s WhatsApp Railbot: Simply send a ‘Hi’ to redRail’s Railbot number (+91 9538039911) and check details on PNR, Live Train Status, Coach Position, and Train Schedule through the interactive chatbot. These services are available to all users, regardless of where they booked their train tickets or even if they haven’t booked one yet.
Option 2: Subscribing to WhatsApp alerts through redBus/redRail App: Open the redRail app or the redRail section within redBus app, enter your PNR number (regardless of where you booked your ticket), and subscribe to WhatsApp alerts. Real-time updates are provided proactively as PNR movements occur. Additionally, a PNR link is provided with comprehensive train travel information, including coach position and train schedule. Platform numbers are shared 24 hours before the journey, and Live Train Status is shared 6 hours before departure, with immediate updates in case of train cancellations.
