If you frequently travel by train, there’s good news for you. The Indian Railways is set to reduce the prices of AC train tickets. This decision has been taken to make AC train travel more affordable and accessible to all.
A Significant Reduction in Fare
In a statement released on Saturday, July 8, 2023, the Railway Ministry announced a reduction of up to 25% in the fare of AC chair car and Executive classes of trains with lower occupancy. This discount scheme will be implemented immediately on all AC trains including Anubhuti and Vistadome coaches.
The Extent of the Discount
According to the press release, the discount will be up to 25% of the base fare. However, passengers who have already booked their tickets will not receive any refund due to this scheme.
Considering Lower Occupancy Trains
The order states that a concessional fare scheme will be considered for categories of trains that have seen less than 50% occupancy in the past 30 days.
Exclusions from the Scheme
The scheme will not be applicable to special trains run during holiday seasons or festivals. Additionally, it’s specified that if the discount is applied from the beginning to the end of a journey, no Tatkal quota will be set for a certain period in the AC train.
Revoking the Flexi Fare Scheme
The order further clarifies that in trains where the Flexi fare scheme is in place but the occupancy is low, the scheme will be withdrawn. If this action does not result in any significant improvement in occupancy, then the discount scheme will be implemented in these trains as well.
Important Information Table
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Discount on fare | Up to 25% |
| Applicable on | AC Chair Car and Executive Classes |
| Not applicable on | Special trains during holiday season/festivals |
| Effect on Tatkal quota | None, if discount is applied throughout the journey |
| Effect on Flexi Fare Scheme | Scheme may be withdrawn in low occupancy trains |