Rajdhani, Duronto, Shatabdi Train Fares Will Increase Upto 9%; Here’s The Reason Why?

Indian Railways has confirmed that passengers of premium trains like Duronto, Rajdhani and Shatabdi Express will now need to pay more, for the train journey.

Fares can be hiked upto 9% for these premium trains, starting March, 2020.

What is the reason?

Why Train Fare For Rajdhani, Duronto Will Increase?

Few days back, we had reported that food rates for Rajdhani, Duronto and Shatabdi has been increased, for all classes: AC 1st, AC 2, AC 3 and Executive Class.

From Rs 5 to Rs 25 increase has been announced, which will come into force effective March 29th, 2020.

Now, as a direct result of this increased food rates, the passenger fares for these premium trains will also increase.

Now, the reason for this is that, in these premium trains, the cost of meal is included in the fare. Thats why the fares for these premium trains is anyways more.

Since the cost of the food will increase, this means that the overall fare will also increase.

Railways issued a statement in this regard, wherein they said, “The impact on the total ticket fares of the pre-paid trains will be an increase in the range of 3 per cent to 9 per cent for passengers who opt for meals. The revised catering tariff shall be effective from March 29, 2020 ,”

As per the new food rate, a passenger travelling in AC 1st class will now need to pay Rs 245 for lunch, and Rs 35 for tea.

Here is the complete updated list of new food rates, applicable from March 29th, 2019.

What About Passengers Who Don’t Opt For Meals?

Now, as per the current rules, it doesn’t matter whether the passenger has opted for a meal or not: They will need to pay for the full fare, which also includes food.

However, as per the statement issued by Railways, it seems that only those passengers who opt for a meal onboard, will need to pay the extra fare of 3-9% for the journey.

This seems to create a doubt, and even we are wondering, how will this be managed.

Will Indian Railways charge less from the passengers, who are not opting for the meal on Rajdhani, Duronto and Shatabdi Express?

We will keep you updated, as more details come in.