Railway passengers, take note! If you are traveling via Central Railway stations, you will need to shell out more for snacks and beverages starting June 1, 2026. The Central Railway has announced a revision in the prices of food items sold at station stalls and trains, citing rising input costs and inflation.
Price Hike Details
The new price list includes an increase of Rs. 5 to Rs. 10 on popular items such as tea, coffee, and packaged snacks. For instance, a cup of tea that earlier cost Rs. 15 will now be available for Rs. 20. Similarly, a packet of biscuits will see a price rise from Rs. 10 to Rs. 15. The hike applies to all food outlets operating under the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) at Central Railway stations.
Affected Stations
The price revision will be implemented at major stations under the Central Railway zone, including Mumbai CSMT, Dadar, Thane, Kalyan, Pune, Nagpur, and others. Passengers are advised to carry extra cash or use digital payment options to avoid inconvenience.
Reason Behind the Hike
According to a Central Railway spokesperson, the decision was taken due to the increase in the cost of raw materials and operational expenses. The railway authorities have assured that the quality of food will not be compromised despite the price revision. They also mentioned that the hike is minimal and in line with market rates.
Passenger Reactions
While some passengers expressed discontent over the price rise, others accepted it as inevitable given the inflation. Regular commuter Rajesh Sharma said, "It's a small increase, but when you travel daily, it adds up. However, I understand the reasons." Another passenger, Priya Singh, added, "As long as the quality and hygiene standards are maintained, I don't mind paying a little extra."
Other Railway Updates
In addition to the snack price hike, Central Railway has also announced the introduction of new express trains and the extension of several suburban services. These changes are part of the railway's ongoing efforts to improve passenger convenience and service efficiency.
Passengers are encouraged to check the official IRCTC website or contact railway enquiry for the updated price list and any further information. The new prices will come into effect from June 1, 2026, and will be applicable until further notice.
