New Delhi, India | December 21, 2025
Indian Railways has announced a nationwide revision in train fares, set to take effect from December 26, 2025. The move will impact millions of passengers across the country, although the Railways has provided relief for short-distance travelers.
The fare adjustment applies to general, mail/express, and AC categories, with the objective of balancing passenger affordability and operational sustainability.
✅ No Fare Hike for Journeys Up to 215 Kilometers
According to Indian Railways, no additional fare will be charged for travel up to 215 kilometers in the general (unreserved) category. This decision is aimed at protecting daily commuters and short-distance travelers from extra financial burden.
Railway officials stated that the exemption was introduced keeping the interests of ordinary passengers in mind.
📈 Fare Increase for Long-Distance Travel
For journeys exceeding 215 kilometers, revised rates will apply:
General (Unreserved) Class: Increase of 1 paisa per kilometer
Mail/Express and AC Classes: Increase of 2 paise per kilometer
Example:
The distance between Patna and New Delhi is approximately 1,000 kilometers.
Traveling by a non-AC Jan Sadharan Express will now cost about ₹10 extra.
Passengers on premium trains such as Sampoorna Kranti Express, Vande Bharat, or Rajdhani Express will pay around ₹20 more.
💰 Railways Expects ₹600 Crore in Additional Revenue
Indian Railways estimates that the revised fare structure will generate approximately ₹600 crore in additional revenue.
According to officials, the extra funds will be used to:
Manage rising operational costs
Improve station infrastructure
Enhance coach maintenance
Strengthen passenger safety and security systems
🎯 Balancing Passenger Relief and Infrastructure Needs
Railway authorities emphasized that the fare revision has been carefully calibrated to minimize the impact on passengers while ensuring sufficient resources for modernization and service improvements.
Passengers are advised to check updated ticket prices on IRCTC and official Railway platforms before booking journeys scheduled on or after December 26, 2025.
