Indian Railways will increase passenger train fares beginning December 26, 2025, the Ministry officially notified on Thursday. This marks the second fare revision in less than a year, with the previous increase implemented in July.
Fare Adjustments Explained
The adjustments vary by class and distance. For ordinary class travel exceeding 215 km, fares will increase by 1 paise per kilometer. Non-AC classes on mail/express trains, and all AC classes, will see an increase of 2 paise per kilometer.
Crucially, fares for suburban services and season tickets remain unchanged. For shorter, non-AC journeys, the Ministry has implemented a tiered system. Journeys up to 215 km will not be affected. For distances between 216 km and 750 km, fares will increase by ₹5, with subsequent increases of ₹10, ₹15, and ₹20 for longer distances.
According to the Ministry, a 500 km journey in a non-AC mail/express coach will cost approximately ₹10 more under the new structure.
Balancing Affordability and Sustainability
The Ministry justified the fare hike as a measure to “balance affordability for passengers and sustainability of operations.” The revised fares will apply to tickets booked on or after December 26, 2025, with no retroactive charges for tickets purchased prior to that date.
Stations will update fare lists to reflect the changes. The Ministry reiterated its commitment to providing safe, reliable, and affordable travel to passengers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will suburban train fares increase?
No, the revised fare structure does not include any changes to fares for suburban services and season tickets, including both suburban and non-suburban routes.
When do the new fares take effect?
The revised fares are applicable only on tickets booked on or after December 26, 2025.
How much will a long-distance train journey cost more?
For distances between 1751 km and 2250 km, the fare will increase by ₹20.
How might these fare adjustments impact ridership on long-distance routes in the coming months?
