- Long-distance train fares in India increased for the second time in six months from December 26
- No fare changes for suburban services and season tickets under the new structure
- Second Class Ordinary fares increased by Rs 5 to Rs 20 depending on distance traveled
Long-distance train travel on Friday got costlier in India, with the Ministry of Railways increasing ticket prices for the second time in six months.
The ministry said the train fares were hiked with "the objective of balancing affordability for passengers and sustainability of operations".
Under the revised fare structure, there is no change in fares for suburban services and season tickets, including both suburban and non-suburban routes.
The revised fares are applicable only on tickets booked on or after December 26. Tickets booked prior to this date will not attract any additional charges, even if the journey is undertaken after the effective date, the ministry said.
Here's How Much You Need To Pay More For Train Journeys:
Second Class Ordinary
Up to 215 km: No increase
216-750 km: Rs 5 increase
751-1,250 km: Rs 10 increase
1,251-1,750 km: Rs 15 increase
1,751-2,250 km: Rs 20 increase
Sleeper Class Ordinary, First Class Ordinary
1 paisa per km has been increased
Mail and Express trains
2 paise per kilometre has been increased across non-AC and AC classes. This includes Sleeper Class, First Class, AC Chair Car, AC 3-Tier, AC 2-Tier, and AC First Class. This means, for a 500 km journey in non-AC Mail/Express coaches, passengers will pay about Rs 10 extra.
The new fares will also apply to major train services, including Tejas Rajdhani, Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Duronto, Vande Bharat, Humsafar, Amrit Bharat, Tejas, Mahamana, Gatimaan, Antyodaya, Garib Rath, Jan Shatabdi, Yuva Express, and Namo Bharat Rapid Rail.
No Changes In Train Reservation Fees, Superfast Surcharges
There are no changes in reservation fees, superfast surcharges, or other ancillary charges, which will continue to be levied as per existing rules, the ministry said.
GST applicability remains unchanged, and fares will continue to be rounded off according to prevailing norms, it added.
"The revised fare structure reflects a balanced approach that safeguards passenger convenience while maintaining operational sustainability," it said.
