New Delhi :From April next year, children of the age group of 5 to 12 years of age will be charged full fare instead of half as the Railways has revised the child fare rule.
Under the revised provision, full adult fare will be charged for children of age 5 years and under 12 years of age if for whom berth/seat (in reserved class) is sought at the time of reservation.
However, there shall be no change in the rule for child fare of unreserved tickets which means fare for children of 5-12 years for unreserved tickets shall continue to be half of the adult fare.
The revised child fare rule shall be applicable for travel from April 2016 onwards. Exact date of commencement of this provision will be notified separately at a later date, according to a statement issued by railways.
However, in case berth/seat is not sought for the children of age 5 years and under 12 years of age at the time of reservation, then half of the adult fare shall continue to be charged.
Railways will carry out necessary changes in the reservation form so that the passenger can indicate their option for requirement of full berth/seat for child or not.
Children under five years of age will continue to enjoy free ride (without berth) in trains.
PTI