Train Fares Hike: Long-Distance Travelers Face Festival Shock from Dec 26

• Railway fares for long-distance travel will increase from December 26, impacting passengers before the festival season.
• General class tickets over 215 km will see a 1 paisa per kilometer hike; Non-AC Mail/Express and AC coaches face a 2 paisa per kilometer increase.
• Daily suburban commuters and general class travelers covering less than 215 km are exempt from this fare hike.
• The increase aims to cover network expansion, rising maintenance costs, staff salaries, pensions, and infrastructure development.
• Estimated increases: Hyderabad-Tirupati (660 km) ~₹4.50 (General), ~₹13.20 (Non-AC/AC); Hyderabad-Visakhapatnam (700 km) ~₹5 (General), ~₹14 (Non-AC/AC).

Why It Matters: Long-distance train fares rise from Dec 26 due to operational costs, sparing short-distance commuters.