Hyderabad: The SCR ticket checking revenue reached a record Rs.223.60 crore in the 2025-26 financial year, marking the highest-ever earnings for the South Central Railway zone.
The zone surpassed the Railway Board’s target of Rs.221.08 crore and achieved the milestone 14 days ahead of schedule. The latest performance also exceeded the previous record of Rs.220.81 crore set in 2023-24.
Officials said penalties on ticketless travel, irregular journeys, and unbooked luggage drove the SCR ticket checking revenue growth. These enforcement measures formed the bulk of collections during the year.
In addition, the zone recorded a single-day collection of Rs.1.85 crore on October 18, 2025. This marked another high point in the current financial year.
SCR ticket checking revenue boosted by enforcement, digital push
Officials attributed the rise in SCR ticket checking revenue to stricter enforcement and increased vigilance across stations and trains. They also cited the role of digital ticketing systems in improving compliance.
Authorities promoted platforms such as the RailOne app, Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs), and QR code-based ticketing at stations. These systems supplemented traditional booking counters and improved passenger awareness.
The railway administration said these initiatives encouraged passengers to follow ticketing rules more closely. As a result, violations reduced while legitimate ticket purchases increased.
SCR General Manager Sanjay Kumar Srivastava praised the Commercial wing staff for the achievement. He said effective ticket checking helps curb malpractice and ensures fairness for genuine passengers.
He said the consistent enforcement drive strengthened trust among passengers and improved the overall integrity of the ticketing system.