A viral video by content creator Manthan Jethwani claims that ChatGPT-6 Astra successfully completed almost all steps of booking a train ticket on the IRCTC platform.
- Content creator Manthan Jethwani tested ChatGPT-6 Astra for train booking.
- The AI successfully identified trains from Mumbai to Rajkot.
- The process was completed up to the final payment stage.
- The video has sparked intense debate regarding AI's ability to replace human tasks.
The boundary between human assistance and artificial intelligence is blurring faster than ever. A recent viral video has sent shockwaves through the internet, claiming that ChatGPT-6 Astra can perform complex tasks like booking train tickets on the IRCTC (Indian Railways) website. The experiment, conducted by content creator Manthan Jethwani, suggests that AI is moving from a conversational tool to a functional agent.
The idea originated from a social media comment questioning whether AI could navigate the complexities of India's government-run railway ticketing system. Skeptical at first, Jethwani decided to put the technology to the test. He provided a specific prompt: 'Book an AC coach ticket for two people from Mumbai to Rajkot between 9 PM and 11 PM on September 20, using a browser.'
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that if AI agents can autonomously navigate highly regulated and complex government portals, it marks a paradigm shift in how we interact with the internet. While this promises unparalleled convenience, it also raises significant concerns regarding cybersecurity, session hijacking, and the integrity of government digital infrastructure.
The transition from generative AI to agentic AI—where the system can execute actions in the real world—is the next great frontier in technology.
According to the video, the AI did not just search for trains; it actively selected routes, checked availability, and even provided information regarding the waiting list status for specific timings. Jethwani claimed that the AI managed nearly every step of the booking process, leaving only the final financial transaction to be completed by the human user.
The internet's reaction has been a mix of awe and skepticism. While some users are excited about the potential for seamless travel planning, others are skeptical about its reliability during high-pressure scenarios like 'Tatkal' booking, where every second counts. One user suggested a harder test: 'Ask the AI to apply for a real job using a CV.'
Historical Background
Indian Railways is one of the world's largest rail networks, and its digital transformation via IRCTC has been a cornerstone of India's digital revolution. Integrating AI into this massive ecosystem could potentially reduce human error and improve passenger experience, provided security measures are robust.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it safe to let AI access my booking accounts?
Currently, most AI tools require manual intervention for sensitive steps like payments and OTP verification to ensure security.
2. Can ChatGPT book tickets on any website?
Its ability depends on the website's structure, anti-bot protections, and the AI's ability to interpret visual and code-based elements.