Train fare hike likely this week, 5 to 40 paise per km increase expected

Railways had received approval from PMO in November, but was asked to wait till end of Jharkhand elections to make the announcement

The Indian Railways is likely to hike passenger fares for all trains and classes this week. The increase in fare may range from 5 to 40 paise per kilometer, according to a report in Hindi daily Dainik Bhaskar.

The proposal had received approval from the Prime Minister's Office in November but announcement was reportedly delayed owing to the ongoing Assembly elections in Jharkhand.

The Railways has been battling an increased pressure on finances in the wake of an economic slowdown. And since there's little scope of increasing freight charges due to stiff competition from road transport, Railways is eyeing an