In a significant relief for millions of passengers, Indian Railways has announced that its upcoming fare revision will not impact tickets already booked at the older rates. The revised fare structure is set to take effect from Friday, December 26, 2025, marking the second such increase in the past six months.
Key Clarification from Railway Board
Confirming the development to Indianexpress.com, Dilip Kumar, Executive Director (I&P) of the Railway Board, stated that the new fare structure will be applicable only to tickets issued on or after December 26. This means passengers who have secured their tickets in advance for journeys on or after the effective date will not have to pay any additional amount.
The national transporter, in an official statement on Thursday, emphasized that tickets already issued at pre-revised rates will remain unaffected. Consequently, no fare difference for journeys commencing on or after December 26 will be reflected in the reservation charts for such tickets.
Where the New Fares Will Apply
However, the Railways made a crucial distinction for tickets issued on the spot. Any new tickets made by Ticket Examiners (TTEs) or ticket-checking staff on trains or at stations on or after December 26 will be charged at the revised rates.
The Ministry of Railways said, "In case of tickets already issued at pre-revised rates, the revised fare shall not be applicable. However, any new tickets made by TTE/ticket checking staff in trains/at stations on or after 26.12.2025 shall be charged on revised rate."
Details of the Revised Fare Structure
The fare revision involves an increase of 2 paise per kilometre for Mail and Express trains in non-AC coaches. Similarly, fares for all Air-Conditioned classes have also been raised by 2 paise per km.
For passengers travelling up to 500 km in non-AC coaches, this translates to an additional flat charge of Rs 10. The rationalisation is expected to generate approximately Rs 600 crore in additional revenue for the national transporter in the current year.
The Railways stated that this modest adjustment in passenger fares, alongside a focus on increasing cargo loading, is aimed at meeting rising operational costs, including higher manpower expenses. It is important to note that fares for suburban and season tickets remain protected and unchanged.
The public fare lists displayed at railway stations across the country will be revised to reflect the new tariffs effective from December 26.
