THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Latest report suggests that the Indian Railways is likely to hike passenger fares for all trains and classes by February 2020. According to sources, the ticket prices would increase by 10% to 20% for various classes. It must be noted that the previous hike in railway ticket fare was in the year 2014.

According to sources, the hike in ticket fares is aimed at reducing the financial stress of the Indian Railways which is struggling due to an economic slowdown. Though the Prime Minister's Office had approved the proposal in November the move to increase ticket charges was delayed due to Jharkhand Assembly elections.

Earlier, the government had introduced various measures such as the introduction of the Flexi-fare system and change in refund systems to improve the condition of the Indian Railways.