Indian Railways is under growing pressure to reconsider the ticket pricing of its flagship Vande Bharat Express trains, as passengers express concerns over affordability.
Launched with much fanfare in 2019, the Vande Bharat Express has quickly garnered attention for its semi-high-speed performance, superior comfort, and modern features. However, the premium fares have sparked concerns, particularly among lower-income groups who find it challenging to afford travel on these high-end trains. In response, there are strong indications that the government is contemplating a reduction in ticket prices to make this state-of-the-art service accessible to a broader cross-section of society. The Vande Bharat Express operates on select routes, connecting cities situated within 800 km of each other and those that can be covered in under 10 hours. Currently, Indian Railways runs 136 such services, and the trains have earned a reputation for offering an elevated travel experience, making them a preferred choice for those seeking fast, convenient, and comfortable intercity travel. Yet, this prestige comes at a cost, with ticket prices for the Vande Bharat being considerably higher compared to regular trains. As a result, many of the lower and middle-income passengers are unable to utilise this service, even though it represents a leap in India’s rail infrastructure.
The issue has garnered significant political attention, with Congress MP Rakibul Hussain raising the matter in the Lok Sabha. In a direct query to the Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Hussain questioned whether the government had any plans to lower the fares of the Vande Bharat Express, thereby enabling a more diverse range of passengers to access the service. The question, which has garnered considerable media attention, highlights a growing concern among passengers who feel that while the Vande Bharat is a step forward in terms of railway innovation, it remains out of reach for many. Sources within Indian Railways suggest that the government is actively considering a revision of ticket prices, particularly in light of the demand for more inclusive transportation options. While no official confirmation has been made, the conversations have gained momentum, with some reports indicating that the government is exploring ways to make the service more affordable. This could involve adjusting the pricing structure based on factors such as income, with subsidies or tiered pricing potentially being introduced to cater to a wider demographic.
The decision could be a game-changer, particularly in the context of the government’s broader vision of transforming public transport into a more sustainable and equitable service. With environmental sustainability becoming a focal point for the country’s infrastructure development, making Vande Bharat more affordable aligns with the national goal of reducing carbon emissions and fostering inclusive growth. By improving the accessibility of the Vande Bharat Express, the government could also promote the use of rail transport over other more polluting modes of travel, contributing to a greener future. Moreover, making the service more affordable for a larger pool of passengers could also boost rail travel’s market share, encouraging more people to shift from cars or buses to the train network. This shift could help alleviate traffic congestion on major highways and contribute to the overall environmental goals set by the Indian government. Furthermore, the reduction in ticket prices may also address growing concerns over the affordability of the service, especially in the aftermath of the economic strain brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
As Indian Railways continues to focus on modernising its fleet and infrastructure, this move to revise Vande Bharat’s ticket prices could serve as an important step towards a more inclusive and sustainable rail network. The government’s decision, if it materialises, would signal a commitment to ensuring that high-quality services are not just the privilege of the affluent but can be enjoyed by all Indians, regardless of their economic background. While no final decision has been announced yet, the discussions surrounding the Vande Bharat Express fares are undoubtedly setting the stage for a pivotal shift in the way premium railway services are priced in India. Whether this will lead to a reduction in ticket prices or result in a redefined pricing strategy remains to be seen. Nonetheless, it is clear that the Modi government is looking at ways to ensure that this flagship rail service continues to thrive while being inclusive and accessible to all.
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Vande Bharat Fares reduced for All Indians
