Karnataka: Local train fares back to pre-Covid era, relief for passengers

In 2020, after the resumption of services post-Covid, the South Western Railway converted many Memu/Demu and passenger trains without significantly reducing the travel time.

In a relief for local train commuters, Hubballi-headquartered South Western Railway has reversed its decision to charge express fares for MEMU/DEMU trains after more than three years.

A message from the SWR to the three divisions— Bengaluru, Hubballi, and Mysuru—dated February 22 states: "All Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (Memu)/ Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (Demu) and passenger trains stopping at all stations en route from the originating point to the destination point are to be charged with IInd ordinary fare, as it was done during the pre-Covid period, with immediate effect."

This decision, coming a few weeks before the implementation of the election model code of conduct for Lok Sabha polls, brings relief to thousands of passengers across the state.

Also, read: Bengaluru airport trains cancelled by railways citing low ridership, staff shortage; passengers fume

In 2020, after the resumption of local train services post-Covid, South Western Railway converted many Memu/Demu and passenger trains without significantly reducing the travel time.

While the minimum fare in passenger trains is just Rs 10, it is Rs 30 in express trains. The Bengaluru division alone operates 108 services, with 20 pairs (40 services) being express trains including on the airport route.

Yogesh Mohan, Bengaluru Divisional Railway Manager, SWR confirmed to Moneycontrol that the new fare has been implemented in the Bengaluru division.

Asked whether it is applicable only to SWR zones, a senior railway official said respective zones will take a decision.

Also, read: Bengaluru: First electric train service to Nandi Hills from December 11