Indian Railways Hikes Fares from Dec 26: What Passengers Need to Know

• Indian Railways implemented a passenger fare hike starting December 26, marking the second increase in 2025.
• Fares for Second Class Ordinary travel over 215 km increased by 1 paisa/km, while non-AC Mail/Express and all AC classes saw a 2 paise/km hike.
• The hike aims to cover rising operational, maintenance, and safety costs, ensuring continued investment in infrastructure.
• Suburban trains, season tickets, and Second Class Ordinary travel up to 215 km are exempt from the fare increase.
• Passengers who booked tickets before December 26 will still pay the old fare, even for journeys on later dates.

Why It Matters: Indian Railways increased fares from Dec 26 to cover costs, with exemptions for short-distance and suburban travel.