Vande Bharat train fares among world's lowest, occupancy near 100%: Ashwini Vaishnaw (Image: Ministry of Railways)Vande Bharat train fares: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Wednesday said that Vande Bharat train fares are significantly lower than those of similar rail services in countries such as China, Japan and France. Since its launch in 2019, Indian Railways has introduced 162 Vande Bharat AC Chair Car services (82 routes) across the country.In a written statement in the Lok Sabha, Vaishnaw said that Vande Bharat train fares have been kept affordable, with AC Chair Car fares for journeys between 300 km and 400 km averaging around Rs 2.19 per passenger km (PKM). He said this is significantly lower than the Rs 7 to Rs 20 per PKM charged for similar segment of rail services in countries such as China, Japan and France.Also Read | India’s first Vande Bharat freight train begins trial run, hits 145 kmphThe Union Minister further said that Indian Railways fares are among the lowest in the world and remain cheaper than those in several neighbouring countries, including Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.Here’s a look at how Indian Railways’ ordinary-class passenger fares compare with similar train services in Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka:The minister further said that around 740 crore passengers travel on Indian Railways every year. He added that the railway’s fare structure takes into account socio-economic factors while also largely aligning with the relevant best practices adopted by different railway systems of the world.“Ministry of Railways while deciding the fare structure of various types of passenger services gives due consideration to aspects like the cost of service, value of service, type of services/facilities offered, affordability, competition from other competing modes and socio-economic considerations etc,” he said.Vande Bharat train occupancyThe Railway Minister said the rationalised fare structure of Vande Bharat trains has supported the expansion of the services across the country, reflecting strong passenger demand. “Vande Bharat services have high occupancy level on all major routes with occupancy of Vande Bharat near 100% demonstrating a change in passenger preferences,” he added.Story continues below this ad“Vande Bharat trains operate as a distinct passenger service segment having specific fare structure with features like improved suspension systems, faster acceleration with semi-high speed operation, automatic plug doors, ergonomics seats, mini pantry, CCTV’s, KAVACH etc,” the Railway Minister added.Indian Railways subsidy passenger travelThe minister said the total subsidy on passenger tickets in the financial year 2024-25 is provisionally estimated at Rs 60,239 crore, amounting to a 43 per cent subsidy on the cost of passenger travel.“If the cost of providing services is ₹100 then the price of ticket is ₹57 only. There is no concession in fare in Vande Bharat trains, however four seats as reserved quota are earmarked for persons with disabilities (Divyangjans) in chair car of each train service,” Vaishnaw said.Anish Mondal is a journalist with over nine years of experience covering the railways and roadways. Currently a member of the Indianexpress.com editorial team, Anish specializes in high-impact sectors. Professional Journey Anish began his career at the public broadcaster Rajya Sabha Television (now Sansad TV), where he developed a foundational understanding of legislative processes and national governance. In 2018, he transitioned to digital financial journalism at FinancialExpress.com, spending nearly six years refining his expertise in market trends and corporate reporting. Before joining The Indian Express in 2025, he served as a key contributor at ETNowNews.com. Education & Expertise Anish’s reporting is backed by a rigorous academic background in communication and the humanities: Master of Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC) – Apeejay Stya University Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Production (PGTVRJP) – Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication Bachelor of Arts (English Honours) – University of Calcutta Areas of Coverage Connectivity: Detailed reporting on the expansion of Indian Railways and National Highway networks. ... Read More