Railways to Reduce Fares of AC Chair Car and Executive Classes by Up to 25%
According to a Railway Board order, the fares of AC chair cars and executive classes of all trains, including Vande Bharat, as well as those with Anubhuti and Vistadome coaches, will be reduced by up to 25 percent. The specific reduction will be based on the occupancy levels of the trains and the fares of competitive modes of transport.
This move aims to make train travel more affordable and competitive with other modes of transportation. By adjusting the fares based on occupancy and considering the fares of alternative modes of travel, the Indian Railways aims to attract more passengers and provide them with cost-effective options for their journeys.
To optimize the utilization of accommodation in trains with AC seating, the Ministry of Railways has decided to empower the principal chief commercial managers of railway zones to introduce discounted fare schemes. This delegation of powers will allow them to implement discounted fare schemes in AC chair cars and executive classes of all trains that have AC seating accommodation, including Anubhuti and Vistadome coaches. The aim is to provide passengers with more affordable travel options in these classes while ensuring efficient utilization of available seating.
According to the Railway Board order, the discounted fare scheme in trains with AC seating will offer a maximum discount of up to 25 percent on the basic fare. Additional charges such as reservation charges, superfast surcharges, GST, and others will be applied separately.
The discount can be implemented in any or all classes based on occupancy levels. This flexible approach allows for dynamic fare adjustments to encourage higher passenger bookings and optimize revenue generation while offering cost savings to travelers.
According to the Railway Board order, the occupancy levels of classes in trains will play a crucial role in determining the application of the discounted fare scheme. Trains that have classes with occupancy below 50 percent, either end-to-end or in specific legs/sections, during the last 30 days will be considered for the discount. This approach ensures that the discount is offered on routes where the demand is relatively lower.
The quantum of discount will be decided based on the fares of competitive modes of transport. This means that the railway fares will be adjusted to remain competitive with other transportation options available to passengers. By considering the fares of competing modes of transport, the railway aims to provide attractive and affordable fares to passengers, encouraging them to choose train travel over other alternatives.
The decision to implement discounted fare schemes in trains with AC seating aims to optimize accommodation utilization and provide cost-effective options to passengers. By delegating powers to principal chief commercial managers of railway zones, the rail ministry can introduce discounts of up to 25 percent on the basic fare, taking into consideration the occupancy levels of specific legs or sections. The fares of competitive modes of transport will serve as a benchmark to determine the quantum of discount, ensuring that railway fares remain competitive and attract passengers.
This new scheme will provide an opportunity for passengers to avail of discounted fares in AC chair cars and executive classes, including Anubhuti and Vistadome coaches. The discount will be implemented immediately, although passengers who have already booked their tickets before the implementation will not be eligible for a fare refund. The introduction of discounted fare schemes is expected to make train travel more affordable and convenient, promoting greater utilization of AC seating accommodation across the railway network.
In situations where flexi fare is applicable in a specific class and the occupancy is low, the discounted fare scheme can be withdrawn initially as a measure to improve occupancy levels. This flexibility allows for adjustments in fares to encourage higher passenger numbers and efficient utilization of seating capacity.
It is important to note that this scheme will not apply to special trains introduced specifically as holiday or festival specials. These special trains may have separate fare structures or pricing mechanisms to accommodate the unique circumstances and demands during holiday or festival periods.
Overall, the implementation of discounted fares in AC seating classes aims to provide affordable options for passengers while optimizing the occupancy levels in trains. By offering competitive fares and ensuring efficient utilization of resources, the railway authorities strive to enhance the travel experience and cater to the diverse needs of passengers across different classes of train services.
