Rail Passengers Face Double Blow: Fares Up, Hefty Fines for Excess Baggage

• Indian Railways increases long-distance train fares from December 26, with a 1-2 paisa per kilometer hike depending on class and distance.
• Passengers carrying excess luggage will face penalties up to six times the normal booking charge, an existing rule now being strictly enforced.
• The fare hike is expected to generate an additional 600 crore rupees, earmarked for improving railway facilities and security.
• General class tickets for journeys under 215 km, suburban trains, and Monthly Season Tickets (MST) are exempt from the fare increase.
• Specific baggage allowances vary by class: AC First (70kg), AC Second (50kg), AC Third/Chair Car (40kg), Sleeper (40kg), Second Class (35kg), with additional allowances for booking.

Why It Matters: Railways hikes fares and strictly enforces excess baggage rules to boost revenue and improve services.