As daily commuters were feeling bogged down by endless document checks while travelling in local trains in Mumbai during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Maharashtra State Disaster Management Authority came up with the Universal Travel Pass (UTP), which revolutionised the travel experience of Mumbaikars, travelling in the suburban trains.
This innovative digital pass acted as a one-stop solution for fully vaccinated individuals, eliminating the need for repetitive verification of vaccination certificates and COVID test results.
This guide is your one-stop resource for all things UTP. It covers everything you need to know: who qualifies, the straightforward application process, how to use your pass and essential points to keep in mind. Consider it your comprehensive companion to the Universal Travel Pass from today.
With the UTP in hand, get ready to embark on a smoother, stress-free travel journey across Mumbai local trains, monorail and metro!
What is a Universal Travel Pass?
The Universal Travel Pass (UTP) is an online e-pass designed for fully vaccinated citizens to travel on suburban trains hassle-free. Similar to travel insurance, it offers a secure way to manage your journeys.
Initially, it was exclusive to those in the medical, education and utility sectors but now extends to employees of registered companies. The UTP was introduced during the third phase of the pandemic to eliminate the need for repetitive ID checks and vaccination verifications, streamlining travel within or outside states.
When movements were being gradually relaxed during the pandemic, each pass, denoted by 5 degrees, corresponded to the state's restriction levels. For example, Degree-3 pass holders could travel where there were level 3 restrictions, with Degree-5 allowing unrestricted travel.
How to Get Universal Travel Pass: Eligibility Criteria and Things You Should Know
Eligibility for the Universal Travel Pass involves several criteria to ensure its efficient and fair distribution:
Universal Access: Initially, access to the Universal Travel Pass was restricted to individuals employed in essential sectors such as medical, education and utilities. However, the Maharashtra Government later extended eligibility to include employees of registered companies. This expansion was aimed to accommodate a broader range of workers who contribute to essential services.
Vaccination Status: Applicants must have completed the entire COVID-19 vaccination cycle, including the required 14-day period after receiving the second dose. This criterion ensures that pass holders are adequately protected against the virus, contributing to overall safety during travel.
Age Requirement: Eligible applicants must be above 18 years old. This age limit is consistent with adult eligibility criteria for COVID-19 vaccination and helps ensure that pass holders are legally responsible adults capable of adhering to travel guidelines and regulations.
Compliance with Application Procedure: Applicants are required to comply with the specific categories and sub-categories outlined in the application process. This ensures that pass distribution is organised and aligned with the intended purpose, facilitating efficient administration and management.
Completion of Application Form: To be considered for the Universal Travel Pass, applicants must thoroughly complete all required details in the application form. This includes personal information, vaccination status and occupational details, among others. Providing accurate and complete information is essential for processing and approval of the pass application.
How Does the Universal Travel Pass Work?
While the Covid-19 movement restrictions have now been completely lifted, you can still get the UTP in case any such restrictions are imposed again in the future. Here is how the UTP works:
Categorisation of Establishments: The government categorises workplaces based on their nature of work. This helps in identifying which sectors are essential and need uninterrupted travel access.
Eligible Sectors: Individuals working in the health, utility and education sectors are eligible to apply for the Universal Travel Pass. These sectors are critical for maintaining public health, essential services and education continuity during restrictions.
Application: You can apply for the Universal Travel Pass online. The application process is designed to be user-friendly and accessible. Ensure you have all necessary documents ready when applying. This typically includes proof of employment in an eligible sector and vaccination status.
Travel Facilitation: Once you have the Universal Travel Pass, you can travel to your workplace and other necessary destinations, even during curfews and other restrictions, if such conditions arise in the future again. This pass serves as proof of your eligibility to travel during restricted times.
Documents Needed to Apply for a Universal Pass for Travel
To apply for the Universal Travel Pass, you will need to attach several documents with your application. These documents ensure your eligibility and help verify your identity.
Here is what you will need:
Required Documents for Employees
Aadhar Card: A unique identification document for employees.
Voter ID Card: Another form of identity verification.
Company Registration Certificate: Proof that you work for a registered company.
Government ID Proof: Any additional government-issued identification.
Industrial Papers: Relevant industry-specific documents, if applicable.
Applying as an Individual
If you are applying for the pass as an individual, select the Citizen category. The process involves a few simple steps:
Mobile Number and OTP Confirmation: Enter your mobile number. You will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) for verification.
Personal Details and Identity Document: Provide your personal details and an identity document. You will need one of the following: Aadhar Card, Voter ID Card and Government ID proof.
Having these documents ready will help you smoothly complete the application process and obtain your Universal Travel Pass.
How to Apply for Universal Pass?
The Universal Travel Pass online application is straightforward. Here is a simple guide to help you through the process of Universal Pass download online, whether you are applying for yourself or your employees:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website: Go to the official website of the Disaster Management, Relief and Rehabilitation Department of Maharashtra. Click on the "Universal Travel Pass" option on the left corner of the page.
Step 2: Choose Your Application Mode: Select whether you are applying as an establishment or a citizen. For establishments, fill in key details like category, type, address, phone number and the number of staff needing passes. Assign a single point of contact (coordinator) for communication with the authorities. Larger organisations can have multiple coordinators.
Step 3: Submit and Await Approval: Submit your application. If you meet the eligibility requirements, the Disaster Management Authority will issue the passes. Eligible employees will receive a confirmation SMS on their registered mobile numbers.
Step 4: Download the Travel Pass: After receiving the confirmation message, visit the official website to download your travel pass. Go to the “Download Travel Pass” section and enter your mobile number. An OTP will be sent to your registered number for authentication. Upload a photo to generate the pass.
Step 5: Print or Save Your Pass: Print the pass from the website or download a soft copy to your desktop or mobile phone. Use the soft copy to travel seamlessly and access public transport in Mumbai and surrounding areas.
How to Download a Universal COVID Pass (UTP)
Now that you understand the basics of the Universal Travel Pass (UTP), you might be wondering how to get one. Follow this step-by-step guide to download your UTP or COVID universal certificate online:
Step 1: Register Your Establishment
Visit the Official Portal: Go to the official Universal Travel Pass website and click on “Universal Travel Pass.”
Register Your Establishment: Click on the “Register your Establishment” link to open the registration form.
Fill Out the Form: Enter accurate information, including your name, address, contact number, business type and category.
Submit the Form: After filling out the form, click the "Register" button.
Step 2: Download Your Travel Pass
Once you have registered your establishment, follow these steps to download your travel pass:
Return to the Official Portal: Revisit the Universal Travel Pass website. From the Home page, click on “Universal Travel Pass.”
Download Link: Click on the “Download Travel Pass” link.
Enter Your Mobile Number: On the new page, enter your mobile number to generate a One-Time Password (OTP).
Verify Your Number: Enter the OTP you received to verify your mobile number.
Upload Your Photograph: Follow the prompt to upload your recent photograph.
Generate and Print Your UTP: Your UTP will be generated. Click on the “Print Pass” button to download and print your travel pass.
Is the Universal Travel Pass Valid in Maharashtra Only?
No, the Universal Travel Pass is not limited to Maharashtra. Although it was initially launched in Maharashtra, the Central Government has adopted it, making it a pan-India document. This means the pass can be used across India to access public transport and other facilities in areas with COVID-related restrictions.
Citizens from any state or union territory in India can apply for this pass on the Maharashtra government’s website and download their passes.
Benefits of Obtaining a Universal Travel Pass in Maharashtra
The Universal Travel Pass (UTP) offers numerous benefits, particularly for residents of Mumbai and other areas in Maharashtra. Introduced to facilitate hassle-free travel during COVID-19 surges, the pass will help individuals navigate restrictions efficiently, if the need arises in the future.
Here is why you should consider applying for the UTP, considering the world is not entirely Covid-free yet and travel restrictions may be enforced in the future:
Enhanced Safety: The UTP helps make travel safer by restricting access to vaccinated individuals, thereby reducing the risk of spreading COVID-19.
Convenient Access: With the UTP, you can enjoy hassle-free entry and exit at various transport hubs, including railway stations, metro stations, bus stops and monorail stations across Maharashtra.
Smooth Operations for Essential Services: The pass ensures the smooth functioning of medical and educational institutions. It eliminates the need for additional registrations or multiple passes to access public transport and other areas.
Reduction in Fraudulent Activity: The UTP reduces the use of fake IDs and passes, which has been a problem in the past. This ensures a more secure and reliable travel system.
Eases Interstate Travel: The pass also simplifies interstate travel, making it easier for people to travel to and from neighbouring states without facing repeated restrictions.
Conclusion
The Universal Travel Pass was introduced by the Maharashtra Government as a valuable tool for ensuring safe and efficient travel. Whether you are commuting within Maharashtra or travelling interstate, the UTP simplifies the process and enhances safety. By understanding its benefits and following the straightforward application process, you can make your travel experience more convenient and secure.
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