Train Fare Hike: Fares for trains operated by Indian Railways have increased effective today (Friday), December 26th. The Railways issued a notification for this on December 21st. According to the Railways, the rationalization of the passenger fare structure has been announced to maintain a balance between passenger convenience and operational financial sustainability. This raises the question: will the increased fares also apply to pre-booked tickets? Will those who booked tickets before December 26th have to pay extra while traveling? Let’s find out.
When is the increased fare coming into effect?
According to the information, the revised railway fares have become effective from December 26, 2025. This will only apply to tickets booked from this date. If you booked your ticket before December 26, even if you travel on or after December 26, there will be no additional charge. The Railways clarified that there are no changes in fares for suburban services, season tickets (both suburban and non-suburban), and second-class ordinary fares for journeys up to 215 km.
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Extra charges will be levied depending on the distance
It should be noted that the increased fares on non-AC ordinary trains are based on distance. For example, there is a Rs 5 increase for a journey between 216 km and 750 km. Rs 10 more will be charged for a journey between 751 km and 1250 km. Rs 15 will be charged for a journey between 1251 km and 1750 km, and Rs 20 for a journey between 1751 km and 2250 km. Meanwhile, fares for Sleeper Class Ordinary and First Class Ordinary have been increased by 1 paisa per kilometer.
How much has the fare increased according to trains?
According to the Railways, fares have been increased by 2 paise per kilometer for both non-AC and AC classes (sleeper, first class, AC chair car, AC 3-tier, AC 2-tier, and AC first class) on mail/express trains. For example, for a 500-km non-AC mail/express journey, passengers will now have to pay approximately Rs 10 extra. The fare hike will apply equally to other major trains, including Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Duronto, Vande Bharat, Tejas, Humsafar, Amrit Bharat, Garib Rath, Jan Shatabdi, Antyodaya, Gatiman, Yuva Express, Namo Bharat Rapid Rail.
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Railways gave this information
Furthermore, the Railways has clarified that there have been no changes to reservation fees, superfast surcharges, or any other ancillary charges. GST rates and fare round-off rules will remain unchanged. Starting December 26, 2025, fare lists displayed at stations will also be updated to reflect the new fares.