Train journeys in India are getting a digital boost. The Indian Railways’ super app, RailOne, has introduced free OTT streaming for passengers, turning travel time into an entertainment opportunity.
Developed by the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS), RailOne was designed as an all-in-one platform to simplify travel. It already offers ticket booking for reserved and unreserved travel, live train tracking, grievance redressal, e-catering food orders, and even porter and last-mile taxi services. Now, with the addition of Prasar Bharati’s WAVES OTT platform, it is expanding its scope beyond logistics into leisure.
WAVES, launched in November 2024, offers a mix of live television, on-demand movies and web series, documentaries, audio shows, interactive games, and even e-commerce options. With content available in over 10 Indian languages, the platform caters to passengers across the country’s diverse linguistic and cultural spectrum.
How can you watch?
The integration means passengers can access the service directly from the RailOne app while onboard. To stream, users simply log in with their mPIN or biometric authentication, navigate to the ‘More Offerings’ section, and select ‘Go To Waves’. The service is free for passengers during their train journey.
From utility to all-in-one travel companion
By combining essential travel tools with entertainment, RailOne positions itself as more than just a booking app. Authorised by IRCTC, it consolidates functions previously spread across multiple railway apps such as RailConnect and UTS, making it a single point of access for travellers.
Industry experts note that the move mirrors a growing global trend where transport providers are enhancing onboard services with digital experiences. Beyond improving passenger satisfaction, such features could also open doors for future monetisation through advertising or premium content partnerships.