Indian Railways Hikes Fares from July 1: Full Details
Key Fare Changes Announced
According to the Railway Ministry, fares for non-AC Mail/Express trains will increase by 1 paise per kilometre. For AC coaches, the hike will be 2 paise per kilometre.
There will be no change in fares for:
- Suburban trains
- Second class tickets up to 500 km
- Monthly season tickets
For travel beyond 500 km in second class, a marginal increase of 0.5 paise per km will apply. These rates aim to balance rising costs while keeping travel affordable.
Aadhaar Now Mandatory for Tatkal Booking
From the same date, Indian Railways will also require Aadhaar-based OTP verification for all Tatkal ticket bookings made through IRCTC platforms.
This move aims to prevent misuse of the Tatkal scheme and ensure genuine access for travelers. The rule applies to individual users. Authorized booking agents are barred from booking Tatkal tickets during peak windows:
- 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM for AC class
- 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM for non-AC class
Why the Fare Hike Now?
Railway officials say the hike reflects inflation and operational costs. They emphasized it’s a “marginal adjustment” aimed at improving service without burdening passengers.
This also comes after increased investments in digitization, safety upgrades, and Vande Bharat trains. Many industry experts view it as a long-overdue but measured step.
What Passengers Should Do
With these changes, passengers should:
- Update Aadhaar details on their IRCTC profiles.
- Plan ticket bookings to avoid peak hours, especially Tatkal.
- Calculate fares using the updated Railway fare calculator.
Looking Ahead
These reforms mark a shift toward accountability, transparency, and digital safety. Whether you’re a daily commuter or planning long-distance travel, staying informed will help you avoid last-minute surprises.
