Panel suggests dynamic fare structure for long-distance trains

A panel appointed by the Railway Board has recommended a dynamic fare structure for long-distance train services under which passengers planning their journey in advance get cheaper deals and charging extra levy for lower berths.

In its report submitted to the Railway Board early this week, the fare review committee also suggested that just like in air travel, passengers should be allowed graded discounts depending on the number of vacant seats in a train.

The move would be similar to airlines offering heavy discounts to passengers if they book their tickets months in advance. Officials said that the committee has recommended discounts from 50 per cent to 20 per cent depending on the number of vacant seats available at the time of booking.

The committee has also proposed discounts for tickets booked after charts have been made. It has said that discounts can be offered in slots from two days to two hours before the departure of the train.

Passengers will also have to pay more for choosing lower berths, just like air travellers pay more for front-row seats. At the same time, senior citizens, people with disabilities and pregnant women could be allotted these seats free of charge.

The committee has also suggested that fares be increased for those trains which reach their destinations at ''convenient'' times such as early morning as against those that arrive at ''odd hours'' for example between 0000 and 0400 hours and 1300 and 1700 hours.

The committee has also recommended that instead of having flat fares, the railways should increase fares during festive seasons, and reduce them during lean season.

The committee is also reported to have recommended premium charges for overnight trains and trains with pantry cars.