Train Fares Rise: Long-Distance Travel Costlier, Mumbai Local Unaffected

• Indian Railways hikes fares for long-distance trains, effective December 26.
• Mumbai Local, short-distance travel, and monthly season tickets are exempt from the fare increase.
• Fares rise by 1 paise/km for Ordinary Class and 2 paise/km for Mail/Express beyond 215 km.
• The hike aims to boost revenue by Rs 600 crore and improve services amidst rising operational costs.
• Journeys under 215 km in Ordinary Class will see no fare change.

Why It Matters: Long-distance train fares increase from December 26; Mumbai Local and short-distance travel are exempt.