Indian Railways has announced an increase in passenger train fares starting December 26th. Here’s what you need to know about the changes.
Fare Changes Overview
While suburban train fares and all types of season tickets will remain unchanged, most other passenger services will see a price hike. Special trains, including Rajdhani and Vande Bharat, will also implement these new fares.
Details on Ordinary Non-AC Trains:
Second Class Ordinary:
- No change for distances up to 215 km.
- A ₹5 increase for 216–750 km.
- A ₹10 increase for 751–1250 km.
- A ₹15 increase for 1251–1750 km.
- A ₹20 increase for 1751–2250 km.
Sleeper and First Class Ordinary:
- Prices will rise by 1 paisa per km.
Mail/Express (Non-AC) Trains:
- Second Class, Sleeper, and First Class will see a hike of 2 paise per km.
AC Classes:
- All AC Chair Cars and AC compartments will also have a fare increase of 2 paise per km.
Key Points to Remember:
- No changes to reservation fees or GST.
- Fares will be rounded off as before.
- Existing bookings made before December 26, 2025, will not be affected.
- Tickets purchased post the date by Ticket Checking Staff will be charged at the new rates.
Updated Information:
New fare lists will be displayed at stations, and systems for booking and manual ticketing will reflect these changes. Railway staff will be briefed ahead of time.
This fare increase occurs as Indian Railways adapts to rising operational costs, aiming to sustain services effectively. According to industry experts, while fare hikes can be inconvenient for travelers, they are often necessary to ensure that services remain efficient and reliable.
In recent surveys, over 60% of commuters expressed concern about fare increases, with many seeking better alternatives. Given the challenges posed by inflation and higher fuel costs, the government is also exploring investments in rail infrastructure to enhance passenger experience and safety.
Overall, as these changes take effect, passengers are encouraged to stay informed about fare updates and options.
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