If you’re a frequent train traveller, here’s some important news. For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, Indian Railways is set to hike passenger fares — effective July 1, 2025. The fare revision will impact both non-AC and AC classes, while certain categories of travel remain unaffected.
Here’s a full breakdown of what’s changing and how it may impact your travel plans.
Fare Hike — What’s Changing?
As per reports in The Economic Times, the fare hike will apply as follows:
Non-AC mail/express trains: Increase of 1 paisa per kilometre
AC class: Increase of 2 paise per kilometre
Suburban fares: No change
Monthly season tickets: No change
Second class fares (up to 500 km): No change
Second class fares (beyond 500 km): Increase of half a paisa per kilometre
While the hike may seem marginal, it will have a noticeable impact on long-distance travellers, especially in AC classes.
Tatkal Ticket Booking — Aadhaar Verification Mandatory
In another key update, Indian Railways is introducing a major change in Tatkal ticket bookings to tackle misuse and ensure transparency.
Starting July 1, 2025, Aadhaar-based OTP verification will be mandatory for booking Tatkal tickets — whether online, at reservation counters, or through agents.
As per a directive issued on June 10, 2025, the move is aimed at ensuring that the benefits of the Tatkal scheme reach genuine passengers and to curb the long-standing issue of bulk bookings by touts.
This verification step applies across:
IRCTC online bookings
Railway reservation counters
Authorized agents
The Railways believes this will help ensure a fairer system for common travellers seeking confirmed Tatkal tickets.
Summary of Fare Changes Effective July 1, 2025:
Suburban fares: No increase
Monthly season tickets: No increase
Second class (up to 500 km): No increase
Second class (above 500 km): +0.5 paisa/km
Non-AC mail/express trains: +1 paisa/km
AC classes: +2 paise/km
Tatkal booking: Aadhaar OTP verification mandatory
Final Thoughts
With travel demand picking up post-pandemic, this fare revision by Indian Railways marks the first step towards rationalising operational costs. While the changes are moderate, regular travellers and long-distance passengers should factor in the revised fares and updated Tatkal booking rules when planning their journeys.
Stay tuned to IRCTC and Indian Railways’ official channels for further updates.
Author Profile
- My name is Kuldeep Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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