Train travel is set to become costlier from next month. Indian Railways is going to increase passenger fares for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. The revised fare structure will come into effect from July 1, 2025, and it includes changes in both AC and non-AC class tickets. However, not all passengers will be impacted equally by this decision.
Ticket Prices for Non-AC Mail/Express Trains
Indian Railways will increase the fare of non-AC mail and express trains by 1 paisa per kilometer. This decision is aimed at gradually recovering operating costs without burdening daily passengers significantly. For second class journeys up to 500 kilometers, there will be no change in the fare. If the journey exceeds 500 kilometers in second class, then the fare will go up by only half a paisa per kilometer. Suburban train ticket prices will remain the same. Monthly season tickets will also not see any change in their fare structure.
Increase in AC Class Ticket Rates
Passengers traveling in AC coaches will have to pay slightly more. As per the new pricing, AC class fares will increase by 2 paisa per kilometer. This minor hike is expected to contribute to the revenue of Indian Railways while still keeping long-distance travel affordable. There is no fare change for short-distance AC travel within 500 kilometers.
Change in Tatkal Ticket Booking System
From July 1, the Indian Railways is also implementing a new rule for booking Tatkal tickets. Aadhaar-based OTP verification will now be mandatory for all Tatkal bookings done online, at railway counters, or through agents. This move aims to stop misuse of the system and ensure that genuine passengers get confirmed Tatkal tickets. The Ministry of Railways has issued a directive on June 10, 2025, making this change applicable across all railway zones.
Revised Fare Summary and Final Notes
Passengers should take note of the following key changes – no change in suburban fares or monthly season tickets, slight increase of 1 paisa/km for non-AC mail/express, and 2 paisa/km for AC class. For second class, journeys under 500 km remain unaffected, while long-distance second class fares go up by half a paisa/km. Aadhaar-based Tatkal booking verification will also begin from July 1.