New Delhi

Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Wednesday said that more than three crore fake user accounts have been deleted from the IRCTC portal as part of efforts to curb ticket touting and ensure fair access for genuine passengers.

Speaking during Question Hour in the Lok Sabha, the minister highlighted measures taken to address overcrowding on long-distance trains. He noted that a majority of railway seating continues to cater to affordable travel, with nearly 78 per cent of seats falling under non-AC categories and about 70 per cent of coaches being general or sleeper class.

Vaishnaw emphasised that improving passenger comfort while keeping services affordable remains a key priority for the government. He added that over 75,000 special trains have been operated in the current financial year to manage increased demand, particularly during peak travel periods.

On the issue of safety, the minister said that focused efforts have led to a significant decline in consequential train accidents, which have reduced by nearly 90 per cent.

Earlier in the session, the House paid tribute to former members Visnu Modi and Datta Meghe, who passed away recently. Members, along with Speaker Om Birla, observed a moment of silence in their memory.

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Before the obituary references, the Speaker also urged members to come prepared after reviewing the day’s agenda, amid disruptions caused by slogan shouting in the House.