By Kavita Mistry 
Good news may be on the horizon for train passengers across India, as the government is considering making Vande Bharat Express trains more affordable. Known for their comfort, speed, and modern amenities, these semi-high-speed trains have connected cities efficiently since their 2019 launch. As of March 31, 2025, there are 136 Vande Bharat services with an impressive overall occupancy rate of over 100 percent, highlighting their popularity. However, high ticket prices have kept many lower and middle-income travellers from experiencing these modern trains. Recognizing this gap, discussions about fare restructuring are gaining momentum to make the trains accessible to more people.
Govt Explores Vande Bharat Fare Cuts Amid High Operational Costs
The issue of affordability was recently raised in Parliament by Congress MP Rakibul Hussain, asking Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw about potential fare reductions. Reports suggest the government is exploring options like subsidies and tiered pricing models, allowing passengers to pay based on income levels, thus making Vande Bharat more inclusive. However, running these advanced trains is costly. Operating a round-trip service of about 1,000–1,500 kilometers costs ₹5–8 lakh daily, with energy expenses at ₹2–3 lakh, maintenance at ₹1–1.5 lakh, and crew and staff salaries around ₹0.5–1 lakh. Additional costs for catering, cleaning, and miscellaneous services further add up, making fare reduction a challenging financial decision.
Built under the Make in India initiative by the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai, Vande Bharat Express, also known as Train 18, began operations in February 2019. With features like automatic doors, reclining seats, onboard Wi-Fi, and bio-vacuum toilets, and speeds up to 160 km/h, it represents a leap forward in India’s rail travel. Lowering fares would not only make the service more accessible but also support sustainable transportation goals, encouraging more people to opt for trains over cars and reducing carbon emissions.
Vande Bharat Fare Talks Signal Push for Inclusive, Affordable Rail Travel
Although no official decision has been announced yet, ongoing discussions reflect a shift toward more inclusive infrastructure development. In a post-COVID world where affordability is crucial, making Vande Bharat trains more accessible could set a powerful example of balancing innovation with public welfare.
Summary:
The government is considering reducing Vande Bharat Express fares to make the semi-high-speed trains more accessible. Despite high operational costs, proposals like subsidies and tiered pricing are being explored. Lowering fares could promote sustainable travel, enhance inclusivity, and strengthen India’s efforts toward modern, affordable public transportation post-COVID.