Railways to hike AC class fares by 0.5% from Jun 1

Fares for first class and AC class in passenger trains besides freight charges will be increased by 0.5% from June 1 as new service tax will come into effect.

"Currently, 3.708 per cent service tax is levied on train fares for AC Class, First Class and freight. This will go up to 4.2% from June which means the rise is only 0.5%," said a senior Railway Ministry official.

If the AC fare is Rs 1,000, then you will be charged Rs 10 more. Increase in service tax will be applicable on tickets purchased on June 1 and onwards, he added.

While the increase in passenger fare is applicable on AC and First Class only, service tax will be levied on all goods transported by Railways.

The official said the hike is marginal and it is being done as per the General Budget proposals.