Rail Fares Hiked for Journeys Over 215 km; New Rates to Take Effect from December 26

New Delhi: Train travel in India is set to become more expensive. Indian Railways has announced an increase in passenger fares ranging from ₹10 to ₹50, with the revised rates coming into force from December 26, 2025.

Importantly, passengers who have already booked their tickets will not be charged the increased fare.

The Railway Board issued a circular on Sunday stating that the fare structure has been “rationalised.” Officials clarified that daily commuters and short-distance travellers have been protected from the hike.

The decision, the Board said, factors in rising operational costs, pension liabilities, and employee salary expenses.

According to a senior Railway Board official, for journeys exceeding 215 km, fares in the ordinary (general) class have been increased by 1 paisa per kilometre. In Mail and Express trains, both non-AC and all AC classes (AC 1, AC 2, AC 3) will see an increase of 2 paisa per kilometre.

The Railways explained that a passenger travelling 500 km in a non-AC Mail/Express train will now pay ₹10 more than the existing fare.

There is no change in fares for local (suburban) services or Monthly Season Tickets (MSTs).

Likewise, journeys up to 215 km in the general class will continue at the current rates, ensuring that daily commuters and short-haul passengers are not burdened.

Why the Fare Hike?

Railway officials said this revision comes after nearly a decade, during which the rail network and operations have expanded significantly.

With increased demand for services and enhanced safety measures, staff strength has also risen—pushing up expenditure. Employee-related costs have climbed to ₹1.15 lakh crore, while pension expenses have reached ₹60,000 crore.

₹600 Crore in Additional Revenue

Officials estimate that the revised fares will generate ₹600 crore in additional annual revenue, which will be used to manage operational costs and improve passenger amenities.

The Math Behind the Increase

• Delhi–Mumbai (1,380 km): Mail/Express non-AC fare to rise by ₹27
• Delhi–Kolkata (≈1,450 km): Fare in both non-AC and AC classes to increase by ₹29

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