The RailOne app, developed for train ticket booking, was introduced as an alternative to the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). Tickets for both reserved and unreserved categories can be booked on this app. However, despite its extensive list of features, one significant drawback was the lack of prior notifications or email alerts regarding password expiration.

Major Flaw in Notification System
Typically, banking and financial apps start sending alerts 7-10 days before password expiration. However, this feature is missing from the RailOne app. Users are notified immediately upon login that their password will no longer be valid. This can be a significant risk for time-sensitive tasks like ticket booking.

mPIN vs. Password
The RailOne app uses a 6-digit mPIN for daily logins. Users often forget their primary alphanumeric password after using the mPIN for months. When the app suddenly asks for the main password, the only option left is to forget the password, which has become a cumbersome process in itself.

OTP Delay and Server Glitch
When resetting the password, it takes 15 to 20 minutes for the OTP to arrive on your mobile or email. Technical experts believe that a lack of coordination between the app's authentication server and the user interface causes the app to hang or become unresponsive.

Troubles May Increase During Tatkal Tickets and Festivals
Holi is approaching. Imagine, if you want to book a Tatkal ticket during these times, and then the app asks you to reset your password, a 20-minute delay could give your seat to someone else. On routes like UP-Bihar, where seats fill up in seconds, this glitch is like missing a train for passengers.

What Do Experts Say?
Experts suggest that the RailOne app should add push notifications for biometric login (fingerprint or Face ID) or before password expiration. Furthermore, the OTP delivery system needs to be faster to avoid wasting valuable user time.

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