Indian Railways Hikes Train Ticket Prices From Dec 26: How Much You’ll Have to Pay for Sleeper, AC, Express?

Indian Railways Hikes Train Ticket Prices: There is going to be a major revision in train ticket prices on certain categories from next week. The Ministry of Railways, on Sunday, December 21, announced to bring a new fare structure for train travellers.

The revised train ticket pricing structure will increase the prices by a minimal amount and will help the ministry in tackling the rising operational costs. As per news agency ANI, the Indian Railways is estimated to see a Rs 600 crore revenue gain from the change.

Indian Railways Hikes Train Ticket Prices: How Much You Will Have To Pay After Price Hike?

As per the revised train ticket pricing structure, passengers are required to pay 1 paise per km extra on journeys beyond 215 km in Ordinary Class. Whereas, 2 paise per km for Mail/Express Non-AC and AC class.

Passengers travelling on shorter routes, which are lesser than 215 km will see no change in ticket prices. Those travelling on a 500 km non-AC journey are required to pay an additional Rs 10 for their journey.

For instance, a 500-kilometre non-AC journey will cost only Rs 10 extra under the revised structure. The rationalisation is expected to generate an additional Rs 600 crore in revenue, according to the release. The Indian Railways has kept the fares in the suburban and monthly season tickets unchanged.

When Will Revised Train Ticket Prices Come Into Effect?

The revised prices will come into effect from December 26 and the exact impact on train ticket prices will be visible on the IRCTC application and website from the date.

Boosting Safety Measures, Efficiency

The rationalisation of fares is expected to generate an additional Rs 600 crore in revenue. The Indian Railways, as per the media release, is constantly laying emphasison strengthening safety through enhanced manpower deployment.

The Ministry noted that these measures have already contributed to substantial safety and efficiency improvements, with Indian Railways now emerging as the world's second-largest cargo railway system. During the recent festival season, the Railways successfully operated over 12,000 special trains to manage passenger demand.

To handle these higher costs, Indian Railways is concentrating on freight loading along with limited passenger fare changes. Officials say safety and operating investments have raised capacity and cargo volumes. "Due to these efforts on safety and improved operations, railways have been able to substantially improve safety. India has become the second-largest cargo-carrying railway in the world," it said. The network also ran over 12,000 extra trains during the last festival season, which the railways links to better planning and scheduling.

Looking ahead, the Ministry said Indian Railways will continue its focus on efficiency, cost containment, and operational reforms to achieve the social objective of affordable, accessible transport for the public.