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Railway Fare Hike Takes Effect as Opposition Demands Rollback

Critics warn the new prices will deepen financial strain for low-income and migrant commuters

Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah
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Overview

  • The Railway Ministry raised non-air-conditioned fares by 1 paisa per kilometre and all air-conditioned fares by 2 paise per kilometre from July 1, leaving suburban single-journey and season-ticket rates untouched
  • BSP chief Mayawati and Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah labelled the increase anti-people and called for an immediate rollback to shield daily wage earners and students
  • Uttar Pradesh Minister Sanjay Nishad defended the move, noting fares had been stable for years and asserting the hike is essential to fund safety, efficiency and facility upgrades
  • Opposition leaders emphasise that even modest ticket hikes disproportionately affect crores of low-income commuters who depend on rail travel for livelihood
  • Officials say the additional revenue will support station modernisation, enhanced safety systems and improvements in overall service efficiency