Rail Fares Get Costlier From Today
Long-distance train travel became costlier on Friday after the Ministry of Railways recently announced a fresh hike in ticket prices. This marks the second fare increase in the last six months.
The ministry said the decision aimed to balance passenger affordability with the need to maintain sustainable railway operations.
When the New Fares Apply
The revised fares apply only to tickets booked on or after December 26. Passengers who booked tickets before this date will not pay any extra amount, even if their journey takes place later.
The Railways clarified that suburban train services and all season tickets remain unaffected. This includes both suburban and non-suburban season passes.
Fare Hike for Second Class Ordinary
Passengers travelling in Second Class Ordinary coaches will see a slab-based increase depending on distance. Short-distance travel remains untouched.
Fare Increase – Second Class Ordinary
| Distance | Fare Increase |
|---|---|
| Up to 215 km | No change |
| 216–750 km | ₹5 |
| 751–1,250 km | ₹10 |
| 1,251–1,750 km | ₹15 |
| 1,751–2,250 km | ₹20 |
Changes in Sleeper and First Class Ordinary
The Railways has increased fares for Sleeper Class Ordinary and First Class Ordinary by 1 paisa per kilometre.
This means longer journeys will see a slightly higher impact, though the hike remains modest for most passengers.
Mail and Express Trains Get Costlier
Mail and Express trains now cost more across all classes. The Railways has increased fares by 2 paise per kilometre in both non-AC and AC coaches.
This hike applies to:
- Sleeper Class
- First Class
- AC Chair Car
- AC 3-Tier
- AC 2-Tier
- AC First Class
For example, a 500 km journey in a non-AC Mail or Express train will now cost about ₹10 more.
Premium and Special Trains Included
The revised fares also apply to major premium and semi-premium train services. These include:
Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Duronto, Vande Bharat, Tejas, Gatimaan, Humsafar, Amrit Bharat, Garib Rath, Antyodaya, Jan Shatabdi, Yuva Express, Mahamana, and Namo Bharat Rapid Rail.
Passengers using these services should expect a small rise in ticket prices based on distance.
No Change in Other Charges
The Railways has not changed reservation fees, superfast surcharges, or other additional charges. These will continue as per existing rules.
GST rates remain unchanged. The Railways will round off fares according to current norms.
Railways Defends the Decision
The ministry said the revised fare structure follows a balanced approach. It aims to protect passenger convenience while ensuring financial sustainability.
With rising operational costs, the Railways said periodic fare adjustments help maintain service quality without placing a heavy burden on travellers.
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