Rail ticket surge pricing on ‘experimental’ basis

New Delhi, September 8

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Facing criticism, the railways today said the decision to introduce dynamic surge pricing for premier train tickets has been done on an experimental basis and it will be reviewed after some time.

The move to put in place the flexi fare system for premier trains — Rajdhani, Duronto and Shatabdi — from tomorrow has invited criticism from the opposition parties.

Passengers travelling by Rajdhani, Duronto and Shatadbi trains will have to shell out between 10 and 50 per cent more under a dynamic surge pricing system to be introduced from September 9.

“We have introduced the dynamic fare system on an experimental basis. We will review it after some time and see what necessary measures can be taken further,” Railway Board Chairman AK Mital said. He said the decision would impact fares of 81 trains.

Defending the move, Railway Board Member (Traffic) Mohd Jamshed said train travel was still the cheaper mode of transport in the country as compared to air or road. All India Railway Federation General Secretary Shiv Gopal Mishra said: “The hike is not on Garib Rath or Jan Shatabdi trains which are used by the common man. Rajdhani or Shatabdi trains are generally patronised by those who can afford premier service.” — PTI