Train fare hike unacceptable, says BJP

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) opposed the hike in train fares, effective Jan 21 midnight, announced by the government Wednesday, and said the move was "unacceptable" and "atrocious".

"The government goes on increasing the price but they do not increase amenities and safety of the railways. It is absolutely unacceptable and atrocious," said Prakash Javedekar, BJP spokesperson.

"The fare hike once in ten years is not the issue. A hike is justified only if services are bettered. Users are ready to pay for good services. Start providing safety, better amenities and services... people are ready to pay," Javedekar told a news channel.

Railway Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal said the train fares have been hiked, and the hike will take effect January 21 midnight.

Bansal said there would be no fare increase when the annual rail budget is presented in February.