Bengaluru Railway Division extends thermal printers to 3 more stations for unreserved tickets

The Bengaluru Railway Division is upgrading its ticketing system by introducing thermal printers at major stations to improve efficiency and tackle ticket fraud. These modern printers, replacing outdated dot matrix models, will issue tickets featuring unique QR codes that Travelling Ticket Examiners (TTEs) can authenticate using a dedicated mobile application. Thermal printers ensure tickets are not duplicated, providing a secure and efficient solution.

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Currently, two thermal printers have been installed at the KSR Bengaluru City station. The initiative will soon extend to K.R. Puram, Sir M. Visvesvaraya Terminal, and Yesvantpur stations, with one printer each planned for these locations.

The new printers significantly reduce ticket issuance time, completing the process in just three seconds compared to 20 seconds with dot matrix printers. This improvement is expected to minimize queues and enhance commuter convenience.

The initiative follows directives from the Railway Board mandating the exclusive adoption of thermal printers for Unreserved Ticketing Systems (UTS). No further dot matrix printers will be procured, and existing models will gradually be replaced.

Beyond speed and security, thermal printers offer quieter operation, aligning with advancements already seen in Automated Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs), which also utilize thermal printing technology. Officials emphasize that the upgrade represents a major step in modernizing the ticketing infrastructure and improving passenger experience.