Garib Rath to be replaced with Humsafar Express on Chennai-Delhi route

Travelling from Chennai to New Delhi will get costlier from September 29,, 2018, as Humsafar Express is going to replace budget-friendly Garib Rath on the route. With Indian Railways’ decision to withdraw the low-cost third AC Express train Garib Rath from the route, the travellers now will have to pay a hefty amount to travel in Humsafar Express, whose fare begins at INR 2,200 (and is expected to increase with demand).
The decision of conversion was taken on August 30 by the Indian Railways board. It will lead to an increase in fares by INR 1000 to INR 2000 per head for 3rd AC Class travel in Humsafar Express.

As per the order, “Northern and Southern railways will suspend booking of Garib Rath Express trains with effect from September 29 and shall define Humsafar Express train on the notified Humsafar fare structure”.
The fare of regular AC three-tier trains on Chennai-New Delhi route begins from INR 2050, but passengers were able to get Garib Rath tickets at INR 1380 only.

While Humsafar Express is all modern in its functionality with LED displays, public announcement systems and vending machines, Garib Rath trains were launched in 2005 to provide AC class travel at lower price. As of now, there are about 26 trains functional all across the country.

The decision of replacing Garib Rath with a costlier Humsafar Express is definitely going to affect the passenger’s budget.