Why IRCTC is Not Working at 11am? How to Fix IRCTC is Not Working?
by Rubaditsha
Updated Jul 25, 2023
Why IRCTC is Not Working at 11am?
The IRCTC website may experience issues and become unresponsive at 11 AM due to a combination of factors mentioned in the provided information. One of the primary reasons is the high user load during this time. As numerous individuals try to access the website simultaneously to search for train availability and book tickets, it places an immense burden on the IRCTC servers. The surge in traffic overwhelms the server's capacity, resulting in slow response times or even temporary unavailability of the website.
Moreover, the Tatkal ticket booking window opens at 10 AM, and some users attempt to book Tatkal tickets a little later, around 11 AM. This creates an additional spike in traffic, further stressing the server infrastructure. If the servers are not adequately upgraded or maintained, they may struggle to handle the large number of concurrent users, exacerbating the issue.
In addition to the user load, network congestion can also contribute to the problem. Internet service providers may experience congestion during peak hours, affecting the connection between users and the IRCTC servers. This can lead to intermittent connectivity issues and hinder the overall website performance.
Another potential reason could be scheduled back-end maintenance during this time. IRCTC may conduct routine maintenance tasks, updates, or data transfers during off-peak hours, which can lead to temporary unavailability of the website. Although such maintenance is essential for ensuring the smooth functioning of the platform, it can disrupt user access during the maintenance window.
To address these issues, IRCTC can implement several measures. Investing in robust server infrastructure with higher capacity and improved processing capabilities can help handle peak-hour loads efficiently. Implementing load balancing techniques can distribute incoming traffic evenly across multiple servers, ensuring better performance during peak hours. Collaborating with internet service providers to optimize network connectivity during busy periods can also enhance the overall user experience.
Additionally, IRCTC can communicate with users about peak hours and suggest alternative times for ticket bookings to avoid rush periods. Conducting routine maintenance and updates during off-peak hours can minimize disruptions to user access.
IRCTC Overview
IRCTC, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation, is a government-owned entity that offers ticketing, catering, and tourism services for the Indian Railways. While it was initially entirely owned and managed by the Government of India under the Ministry of Railways, it has been listed on the National Stock Exchange and Bombay Stock Exchange since 2019. Despite being publicly listed, the government retains majority ownership in IRCTC.
Establishment and Ownership
Established on 27th September 1999, the IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) initially operated as a public sector undertaking wholly owned by the Government of India under the Indian Railways. As the sole authorized entity, it provides essential services to the Indian Railways, such as online ticketing, catering, and selling drinking water on trains and at railway stations.
Recognized as a Miniratna public corporation in May 2008, IRCTC gained a degree of financial autonomy. In 2019, IRCTC was listed on the National Stock Exchange, resulting in the Government of India's ownership reducing to 87%. The remaining shares were made available for public trading, facilitating broader participation in the company's ownership.
How to Fix IRCTC is Not Working?
Upgrade Server Infrastructure: One of the main reasons for the IRCTC website's unavailability or slow response is the high user load during peak hours, such as 11 AM. To address this issue, IRCTC should invest in upgrading its server infrastructure. By using servers with higher capacity and improved processing capabilities, the website can handle a larger number of concurrent users more efficiently.
Implement Load Balancing
To distribute incoming traffic evenly across multiple servers, IRCTC should implement load balancing techniques. Load balancing ensures that no single server is overloaded, reducing the risk of server crashes during peak hours. This approach can significantly improve the website's performance and responsiveness.
Optimize Network Connectivity
Collaborating with internet service providers to optimize network connectivity during busy periods is crucial. Network congestion can hinder the connection between users and the IRCTC servers, leading to connectivity issues. By working with ISPs to ensure smooth data transfer, IRCTC can enhance the user experience and reduce downtime.
Schedule Back-End Maintenance Smartly
While back-end maintenance is essential for the website's health, IRCTC should plan it smartly to minimize disruptions. Scheduling routine maintenance and updates during off-peak hours, when the user load is relatively low, can prevent interference with regular operations. This approach allows users to access the website smoothly during critical hours like 11 AM.
Provide User Communication and Information
IRCTC should communicate with users about peak hours and suggest alternative times for ticket bookings to avoid rush periods. By informing users about the best times to access the website, they can manage their bookings more effectively. Additionally, providing real-time updates on the website's status during maintenance can help users plan their activities accordingly.
Optimize Ticket Booking Algorithms
As mentioned in the information provided, some users have faced issues with seat allocation during ticket bookings. IRCTC should consider optimizing its ticket booking algorithms to allocate seats more efficiently. Ensuring a smoother and more user-friendly booking process will enhance overall customer satisfaction.
Seek Government Support for Upgrades
If the lack of approvals or support from government authorities is hindering server upgrades, IRCTC should actively engage with relevant stakeholders to address this issue. Collaborating with government agencies to prioritize server upgrades and technology advancements can lead to a more robust and reliable platform.
Continuous Monitoring and Analysis
IRCTC should adopt a proactive approach to monitor the website's performance and conduct regular analysis of user traffic patterns. This will help identify potential issues in advance and allow the technical team to take appropriate measures to prevent website downtime during critical hours.
By implementing these measures, IRCTC can significantly improve its website's performance, reduce downtime, and provide a smoother and more satisfactory experience for its users, especially during peak hours like 11 AM.
Why IRCTC is Not Working at 11am: FAQs
IRCTC, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation, was established on 27th September 1999 as a public sector undertaking fully owned by the Government of India through the Indian Railways.
IRCTC is the authorized entity to provide essential services to the Indian Railways, including online ticketing, catering, and selling drinking water on trains and at railway stations.
IRCTC was recognized as a Miniratna public corporation in May 2008, granting it a certain degree of financial autonomy.
Yes, IRCTC is a government-owned entity. In 2019, it was listed on the National Stock Exchange, leading to a reduction in the Government of India's ownership to 87%. The remaining shares were made available for public trading.
The IRCTC website offers a range of services, including online ticket booking for trains, catering services, and information on tourism packages.