India, Dec. 21 -- Journeys on trains in the country, which serve as a lifeline for many Indians, are set to become costlier as the Railways announced a fare hike on Sunday.

According to the announcement, long-distance travellers will bear the brunt of the hike, while those travelling under 215 kilometres have been spared from the fare increase. The fares for suburban train travel have also not been increased.

The revised fares will take effect on December 26.

The new fare hike announced by the railways means that a 500 kilometres journey in non-air-conditioned coaches would cost Rs.10 more after the new rates kick in. The same additional cost will be borne by those travelling in AC compartments.

In the press release, Railways has said...