Passengers using suburban services and season tickets, both suburban and non-suburban, will see no change in fares. This measure safeguards millions of daily commuters who rely on affordable rail travel for short distances.
Second Class Ordinary Journeys
For Second Class Ordinary non-suburban services, fares remain unchanged for journeys up to 215 km. Beyond this distance, a graded increase has been introduced: ₹5 for 216–750 km, ₹10 for 751–1250 km, ₹15 for 1251–1750 km, and ₹20 for 1751–2250 km. This ensures that short-distance passengers are not burdened while longer journeys contribute modestly to operational costs.
Sleeper and First Class Ordinary
In Sleeper Class Ordinary and First Class Ordinary, fares have been revised uniformly at just 1 paise per kilometre for non-suburban journeys. The increase is designed to be gradual and limited, keeping affordability intact for passengers.
Mail and Express Trains
Across AC and Non-AC classes in Mail and Express trains, fares have been rationalised at 2 paise per kilometre. This applies to Sleeper Class, First Class, AC Chair Car, AC 3-Tier, AC 2-Tier, and AC First Class. For example, a 500 km journey in a non-AC Mail/Express coach will cost passengers only about ₹10 extra.
Impact on Premium Services
The revision extends to major train services including Tejas Rajdhani, Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Duronto, Vande Bharat, Humsafar, Amrit Bharat, Mahamana, Gatimaan, Antyodaya, Garib Rath, Jan Shatabdi, Yuva Express, and Namo Bharat Rapid Rail. Ordinary non-suburban services are also covered, excluding AC MEMU/DEMU where applicable. The changes are uniform and calibrated across classes to maintain fairness.
No Change in Ancillary Charges
Reservation fees, superfast surcharges, and other ancillary charges remain unchanged. GST applicability continues as per existing rules, and fares will be rounded off according to prevailing norms. This ensures transparency and consistency in fare collection.
Applicability of Revised Fares
The revised fares will apply only to tickets booked on or after December 26, 2025. Tickets booked prior to this date will not attract additional charges, even if the journey is undertaken later. Updated fare lists will be displayed at railway stations nationwide.
Balancing Affordability and Sustainability
Indian Railways has emphasised that the rationalisation is aimed at minimising passenger impact while ensuring financial sustainability. By keeping increases modest and sparing suburban commuters, the move reflects a calibrated approach to fare management.