Indian Railway fares to increase from December 26

Indian Railways on Saturday announced a revised passenger fare structure, set to come into effect from December 26, 2025 , aimed at improving financial sustainability and supporting service enhancements. Under the new structure, passengers travelling up to 215 km in ordinary class, as well as suburban train users and monthly season ticket holders, will not face any fare increase.

Long-distance journeys beyond 215 km will see a marginal rise in fares, with ordinary class tickets increasing by approximately 1 paise per km and Mail/Express non-AC and AC classes increasing by around 2 paise per km. For instance, a 500 km non-AC journey will cost around ₹10 more, while AC trips on longer routes may rise by ₹50–₹100.

The fare revision has been prompted by rising operational costs, including manpower, fuel, and maintenance, and is expected to generate around ₹600 crore in additional revenue . Daily commuters and short-distance travellers will see no change in fares, maintaining travel affordability. Long-distance passengers may face slightly higher costs, which could influence travel choices, though the increases are relatively modest.

Indian Railways plans to utilise the additional funds for infrastructure and service improvements, including upgrading tracks, bridges, tunnels, and signalling systems for enhanced safety and efficiency, redeveloping stations with improved amenities, accessibility, and digital services, and enhancing train comfort, frequency, sanitation, lighting, and security. The revenue will also support staff training and welfare, timely maintenance of locomotives and coaches, and green initiatives such as electrification of lines and energy-efficient coaches.

Officials said the revised fare structure aims to balance revenue generation with passenger affordability, ensuring safer, more efficient, and sustainable train services across India.