Enhanced Affordability: Reduced Fares for AC Chair Cars and Executive Classes in Trains

The Railway Board has recently implemented a discount initiative that aims to reduce fares for AC chair cars and executive classes in various trains, including Vande Bharat, Anubhuti, and Vistadome coaches. This article will provide an original overview of the initiative and its key features.

Passengers enjoy a comfortable journey in the newly introduced AC chair cars with reduced fares, thanks to the Railway Board's discount initiative.

Key Features of the Discount Initiative:

Delegated Power to Railway Zones:

• Principal chief commercial managers of railway zones have been granted authority to introduce discounted fare schemes for trains with AC seating.

• This step has been taken to optimize accommodation utilization and offer flexibility in implementing discount schemes.

Applicable Classes and Coaches:

• The discount initiative is applicable to AC chair car and executive classes in all trains with AC seating, including Anubhuti and Vistadome coaches.

• Discounts will be available based on the occupancy levels in these classes and coaches.

Calculation of Discounts:

• The discount percentage will be capped at a maximum of 25% on the basic fare.

• Additional charges such as reservation fees, super fast surcharges, and GST will be separately applied.

• Discounts may vary across different classes depending on occupancy rates.

Occupancy Criteria:

• Trains with classes that have had an occupancy rate of less than 50% over the past 30 days will be considered for the discount.

• Occupancy levels will be assessed either end-to-end or in specific legs/sections of the journey.

• The fares of competitive modes of transport will be taken into account to determine the extent of the discount.

Implementation and Refunds:

• The discount initiative will be implemented immediately.

• However, passengers who have already booked their tickets will not be eligible for fare refunds.

• Initially, the scheme may be withdrawn for trains with poor occupancy and flexi fare systems as a means to increase occupancy levels.

Exclusions:

• The discount initiative will not apply to special trains introduced for holidays or festivals.

The Railway Board's new discount initiative offers relief to passengers traveling in AC chair cars and executive classes by reducing fares by up to 25%. By considering occupancy levels and fares of competitive modes of transport, this initiative aims to provide affordable travel options. Through the delegation of powers to railway zones, the board intends to optimize accommodation utilization and enhance the overall passenger experience.