It may be a place for yourself or your heavy luggage, but space in passenger trains has become dearer with the hike in ticket prices. The Railways have also introduced Tatkal for passenger trains, much like the process for superfast trains, in a bid to increase revenues.

As of 1st October, all ticket, luggage and parcel rates for Rajdhani, Duronto and Shatabdi express trains stand higher by 25%. Parcel charges for birds, pets or wild animals are also hiked by at least 25%. The minimum parcel charge is Rs 30.

Tatkal is introduced for those passenger trains which have 60% occupancy on an average in the previous financial year. Identification of these trains will be handled by the zonal railways. Charges on Tatkal tickets is uniform for all trains and tickets will be given out using the same process.

Parcels of birds and animals are charged more in all categories of trains. Only recently freight charges of commodities was raised 15% on account of a busy season. Looks like there will be no light or heavy seasons for the current hike in charges.

(AW: Sruthi)