Indian railways scraps RAC, introduces minimum 200-km fare for sleeper class
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): With the start of the new year, Indian Railways has issued a major update for passengers. The Railways will begin operating "Amrit Bharat II Express" trains from January 2026. The Railway Board has issued a special letter for these new trains, making significant changes to fares and booking rules. While there has been no increase in the basic fare, the implementation of new minimum distance rules is sure to impact the pockets of passengers traveling short distances.
Now you will have to pay at least this much rent
According to new railway guidelines, a "minimum distance" rule has been implemented for travel on the Amrit Bharat II Express. Under this rule, passengers must pay a minimum fare of 200 kilometers for sleeper class travel, which is set at ₹149. This means that even if a passenger travels 100 or 150 kilometers, they will still only have to pay for 200 kilometers. For second class (general), the minimum distance is 50 kilometers, and the fare is ₹36. Reservation charges and a superfast surcharge will be added separately.
RAC hassles are over, now you will only get confirmed seats
Keeping passengers' convenience in mind, the Railways has made a historic change in the sleeper class of this train. The provision of RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) tickets has now been abolished on the Amrit Bharat II Express. This means that passengers will no longer have to face half-empty seats. All berths will be available as full seats from the first day of the Advance Reservation Period (ARP). However, the old rules will remain in effect for unreserved second class.
Quota system cut, only three categories benefit
To make the booking process transparent, the number of quotas has been limited. Now, only three types of quotas—women, disabled, and senior citizens—will be valid in sleeper class. No other quotas will be applicable on this train. Rules regarding lower berths have also been clarified. The system will now attempt to automatically allocate lower berths to men aged 60 years or above and women aged 45 years or above, based on availability. Additionally, if a passenger is traveling with a child who has not yet booked a separate berth, the system will prioritize them to receive a lower berth.
Emphasis on digital payments and refunds within 24 hours
The Railways has also taken significant steps to expedite the refund process. The goal is to refund cancelled tickets to passengers' accounts within 24 hours. A new policy has been adopted to ensure that payments for reserved tickets are accepted only through digital means. Digital payments will also be prioritized when purchasing tickets over the counter. The Railways believes this will expedite the refund process. If digital payment is not possible, refunds will be issued under normal rules.