Railways mulling dynamic fares in reserved classes of all trains

NEW DELHI: Railways is considering the introduction of dynamic fare pricing for all reserved classes in express and mail trains, similar to the mechanism followed by airlines. As of now, the dynamic fare pricing system, under which fare goes up if the de mand is high, is operational in limited num ber of special `Suvidha' trains.

The transporter is considering the proposal after the success of premium & Suvidha trains. “Yes, we are considering the proposal," said Sharat Chandra Jethi, additional member (commercial), railway board. A source said the details of the plan are still under discussion stage.

However, the move, according to a senior railways official, is aimed at ensuring easy availability of confirmed tickets to genuine passengers. He said the decision to change cancellation norms -doubling the charges and no refund on cancellation of confirmed tickets four hours before the train's scheduled departure -is a move to help genuine passengers and break the touts' hold on tickets.

“People were ready to pay if they get a confirmed berth.Dynamic pric ing and strict cancellation provisions will help genuine travellers and discourage touts,“ he added. Jethi said railways could provide reservation to additional 10% of passengers due to implementation of new cancellation rules from November 13-20. He added higher cancellations charges deterred customers from aborting their journey plans at the last minute.