Passport office to accept tatkal applications

In the backdrop of increasing complaints about non-availability of appointments at the Passport Seva Kendras, the Regional Passport Office located in Koramangala VIII Block will accept tatkal and normal mode applications on a first-come first-served basis from February 21.

However, appointments for the normal applications will be given to only those who are applying for educational, medical, visa interviews and for job requirements. Applicants will need to show some documentary evidence of such urgency. Besides, they will also be required to bring a printout of the application reference number which is generated when the applicant registers on www.passportindia.gov.in

Tatkal applicants will be issued tokens for approaching the Passport Seva Kendra either the same day or the next day. Those applying through normal mode will have to show the immediate cause to get tokens. About 150 people are expected to be accommodated through this mode.

Regional Passport Officer K Srinivasa said complaints from applicants had been pouring in about the non-availability of appointments for tatkal applications which constitute about 25 per cent of all applications at the four Passport Seva Kendras. The number of appointments for tatkal and normal processing has also gone down as the office is accepting applications of Haj travellers.