Archive · 25 Dec 2025
Government Approves Passenger Fare Hikes
The governments of Jammu and Kashmir and Indian Railways have decided to increase passenger fares.
In Jammu and Kashmir, fares will go up by 18% starting January 1, 2026.
This decision was made after transporters asked for a 40% increase due to higher costs.
The government considered many things, like the cost of car parts, fuel, taxes, and how this change will affect regular people.
They decided on an 18% increase to balance the needs of both transporters and passengers.
Meanwhile, Indian Railways has also increased fares for some services starting December 26, 2025.
However, suburban services and season tickets will not be affected.
The increases are small and depend on the distance traveled.
Jammu and Kashmir government approves an 18% hike in passenger fares effective from 1 January 2026.
Indian Railways implements fare hikes from 26 December 2025, excluding suburban services and season tickets.
Transporters in Jammu and Kashmir requested a 40% hike citing increased operational costs.
Indian Railways introduces graded fare increases for Ordinary Non-AC and Mail/Express services.
Both governments aim to balance financial needs with passenger affordability.
- Who
- Government of Jammu and Kashmir and Indian Railways
- What
- Passenger fare hikes
- When
- J&K: 1 January 2026; Indian Railways: 26 December 2025
- Where
- Jammu and Kashmir and across India
- Why
- Increased operational costs and socio-economic considerations
- J&K Hike Percentage
- 18%
- J&K Effective Date
- 1 January 2026
- J&K Chaired By
- Santosh D Vaidya, Principal Secretary Finance
- J&K Committee Name
- Fare Revision Committee (FRC)
- J&K Requested Hike
- 40% (by transporters)
- J&K Factors Considered
- Cost of spare parts, fuel, taxes, maintenance, socio-economic impact
- Indian Railways Effective Date
- 26 December 2025
- Indian Railways Unaffected Services
- Suburban services and season tickets
- Indian Railways Second Class Ordinary Hike
- Rs 5 for 216-750 km, Rs 10 for 751-1250 km, Rs 15 for 1251-1750 km, Rs 20 for 1751-2250 km
- Indian Railways Sleeper/First Class Ordinary Hike
- 1 paise per kilometre
- Indian Railways Mail/Express Hike
- 2 paise per kilometre