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New Delhi: The Indian Ministry of Railways has announced a revision in passenger fare tariffs, effective from today. This marks the second fare adjustment in 2025, following a previous increase announced in July. The new fare charts are being updated across railway stations and digital platforms nationwide.
The ministry has framed the increase as a necessary measure to balance affordability with the long-term sustainability of the world's fourth-largest rail network.
The Ministry of Railways has cited a dual objective behind the latest fare restructuring. In an official communication, the ministry stated that the revision aims to "provide service to passengers at affordable prices while simultaneously sustaining the railway's operations."
This "balanced approach" is designed to ensure the financial health of the network while continuing to invest in safety, reliability, and new amenities. The move is seen as part of an ongoing effort to reduce the system's reliance on freight subsidy for passenger operations and to fund modernization projects.
In a significant relief for daily commuters and short-distance travelers, the fare hike is not universal. The ministry has explicitly shielded certain passenger categories:
The revision follows a slab-and-distance-based model. Here is a detailed overview of how fares have changed across different travel classes:
1. For Ordinary Non-AC Classes (Long Distance):
2. For Sleeper Class & First Class (Ordinary, Non-Suburban):Fares have been increased at a minimal rate of 1 paisa per kilometer for non-suburban journeys, resulting in a gradual increase.
3. For All Mail/Express Trains (Including AC Classes):This category sees the broadest application. Fares have been revised upwards by 2 paise per kilometer across all classes (AC and Non-AC).
The revised base fares apply to virtually all major non-suburban services. This includes premium and high-speed trains, such as:
Passengers must note a critical implementation detail: