Indian Railways has revised parking charges at New Delhi Railway Station, introducing a new tariff structure aimed at easing congestion, improving passenger convenience, and optimising the use of limited forecourt space at one of the country’s busiest transport hubs. The revised parking policy, which came into effect on December 26, follows a recent increase in passenger fares and reflects a broader effort by the railways to better manage urban mobility around major stations.
Officials said the changes are designed to discourage prolonged vehicle halts in pick-up and drop-off zones while offering meaningful relief to passengers making short-duration stops. Under the new structure, private vehicles continue to enjoy a free drop-off window of up to eight minutes, ensuring quick access for passengers without adding financial pressure. However, commercial vehicles will now be charged ₹30 for the same duration, a move aimed at regulating high-frequency traffic and reducing bottlenecks caused by taxis and app-based cabs waiting excessively.
For longer stays, the railways have significantly reduced parking charges. Vehicles parked between 15 and 30 minutes will now pay ₹150, down from the earlier ₹200. The most notable relief applies to the 30–60 minute bracket, where the earlier flat fee of ₹500 has been reduced to ₹200, a change expected to benefit passengers assisting elderly travellers, families with luggage, and those facing train delays.
An official from the Northern Railway zone said the rationalisation balances commuter needs with traffic discipline. “The intention is to ensure smoother circulation at station entrances while keeping charges reasonable for genuine short-term users,” the official noted. The station, which serves hundreds of thousands of passengers daily, has long struggled with congestion caused by unchecked vehicle dwell time.
Importantly, the policy draws a firm line against misuse. Parking beyond 60 minutes in drop-off lanes is now prohibited, and vehicles found violating the rule will be towed with a penalty of ₹300. Railways officials believe strict enforcement is essential to prevent the forecourt from turning into an informal parking lot.
Urban transport experts view the move as a step towards more sustainable station-area management. By discouraging idle vehicles and encouraging quick turnover, the revised charges could help reduce emissions, improve pedestrian safety, and create a more inclusive environment for travellers with limited mobility.
As Indian cities grapple with rising travel demand and constrained infrastructure, such pricing reforms are increasingly seen as low-cost interventions to improve last-mile connectivity. While the effectiveness of the policy will depend on enforcement, the revised parking framework signals a shift towards more orderly, people-centric station access in dense urban settings like New Delhi.
New Delhi Station Cuts Parking Charges Enforces Sixty Minute Limit For Vehicles
