16 Trains Lose Superfast Status: Train Fare Reduction Coming
Expect a train fare reduction as Indian Railways reclassifies 16 pairs of trains to ordinary express services starting January 2027.
Passengers can look forward to a significant train fare reduction as Indian Railways announces the reclassification of 16 pairs of trains. Starting January 1, 2027, several popular services will be downgraded from 'Superfast' status to ordinary express services.
Why the Downgrade?
The decision follows a performance review of various services across the network. According to Railway Board guidelines, a train is only eligible for 'Superfast' status if it maintains a mandatory average speed of at least 55 kmph throughout its entire route. The 16 pairs of trains identified for this change failed to meet this specific speed threshold.
Impact on Ticket Prices and Train Numbers
The most notable benefit for commuters will be the change in pricing. Since these trains will no longer be classified as Superfast, the Superfast surcharge will be removed from their ticket costs. This will result in a price drop ranging from ₹15 to ₹45, depending on the class of travel selected.
However, travelers should be aware of two major operational changes:
- New Train Numbers: To reflect their new status, the affected trains will be assigned new identification numbers, moving away from the existing '12xxx' or '22xxx' series.
- Operational Priority: These services will no longer hold the same operational priority as Superfast trains, which may lead to changes in transit times.
Which Trains are Affected?
The reclassification will impact services across multiple states, including Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, and Kerala. The following trains are among those impacted by the directive:
- Shramjeevi Express
- Magadh Express
- CSMT–Banaras Mahanagari Express
- LTT–Ayodhya Cantt Tulsi Express
- CSMT–Hingoli Jan Shatabdi
- CSMT–Pune Pragati Express
- LTT–Thiruvananthapuram North Express
- Yesvantpur–Thiruvananthapuram North Garib Rath Express
- Jan Shatabdi services on the Thiruvananthapuram–Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram–Kannur routes
Passengers planning journeys on or after January 1, 2027, are advised to verify the updated train numbers and the new fare structures via the official Indian Railways website or designated booking portals.