PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, July 10: With a view to optimize the utilization of accommodation in trains, the Union Railway Ministry has decided to delegate powers to Zonal Railways for introducing discounted fare scheme in trains with AC sitting accommodation.
Applicability of the Discounted Fare scheme:
This scheme shall be applicable in AC chair cars and executive classes of all trains having AC sitting accommodation including Anubhuti and Vistadome coaches.
The element of discount shall be up to a maximum of 25% on the basic fare. Other charges like reservation charge, Super fast surcharge, GST, etc., as applicable, shall be levied separately.
The discount may be provided in any or all the classes on the basis of occupancy.
The train having classes with occupancy less than 50% (either end to end or in some specified legs/sections depending upon the sections where discount is to be provided) during the last 30 days shall be taken into consideration.
The fares of the competitive mode of transport shall be the criteria while deciding the quantum of discount.
The discount can be given for the first leg of the journey and/or last leg of the journey or intermediate sections and end-to-end journey, provided occupancy is less than 50 % in that leg/section/end-to-end, as the case may be.
The discount shall be implemented with immediate effect. However, no refund of fare shall be admissible for already booked passengers.
Tatkal quota shall not be earmarked in such trains for the decided period in case the discount is provided on end to end basis.
This scheme shall not be applicable on special trains introduced as holiday/festival specials etc.
The provision of this scheme shall be applicable up to a period of one year, said a senior official of the Railway Board.
