Rail Passengers Alert: Indian Railways to Increase Ticket Prices Starting December 26
Large-Scale Rail Block Disrupts Pune–Nagpur and Vidarbha Connectivity This Month
Fare revision applies only to longer journeys, while suburban and season ticket commuters remain unaffected.
Indian Railways has announced a revised fare structure that will come into effect from December 26, 2025, introducing a marginal increase in ticket prices for long-distance travel. The move is expected to generate an additional ₹600 crore in revenue, according to estimates by the Railway Ministry.
Under the new structure, the fare hike will apply only to journeys exceeding 215 kilometres, offering relief to short-distance and daily commuters. Passengers travelling less than 215 km will not see any change in ticket prices.
For long-distance travellers, the increase has been kept nominal. Ordinary Class passengers will pay an additional 1 paisa per kilometre, while those travelling in Mail/Express trains — both Non-AC and AC classes — will pay 2 paise per kilometre extra. For example, a passenger undertaking a 500 km journey in a Non-AC class will pay approximately ₹10 more than the current fare.
Importantly, the Railways has decided not to increase fares for suburban train services and monthly season tickets, a move aimed at protecting low- and middle-income commuters who rely on trains for daily travel. Officials said affordability remains a priority even as the Railways works to improve financial sustainability.
The Railway Ministry noted that the previous fare hike introduced in July 2025 has already generated around ₹700 crore in revenue, helping fund operational and infrastructure needs. The latest adjustment is part of a calibrated approach to boost revenue without placing a heavy burden on passengers.
Revised Fare Structure At A Glance
- Suburban trains & Monthly Season Tickets: No change
- Ordinary Class (up to 215 km): No change
- Ordinary Class (above 215 km): +1 paisa per km
- Mail/Express Non-AC: +2 paise per km
- Mail/Express AC: +2 paise per km
Meanwhile, Indian Railways has also announced special train operations for the Christmas and New Year travel season (2025–26). To manage the expected surge in passenger traffic, 244 special trips have been planned across eight railway zones, with more likely to be added in the coming days.
Special trains are being operated on high-demand routes connecting Delhi, Howrah, Lucknow and nearby cities, catering to long-distance travellers heading home or to holiday destinations. Officials said additional services will be announced based on demand patterns closer to the festive period.
The Railways maintains that the revised fares strike a balance between revenue generation and passenger affordability, especially at a time when operating costs continue to rise.
