Middle Class Struggles as Indian Railways Upgrades to Air-Conditioned Travel
The middle class in India is facing increasing challenges due to the decision of Indian Railways to upgrade the masses to air-conditioned travel. As part of this decision, the Central Railway has replaced six sleeper coaches with third air-conditioned coaches in the popular Mumbai-bound Duronto Express and its corresponding train to Nagpur. However, this comfortable and fast travel option comes at a steep cost, as the fares are subject to dynamic pricing, meaning they increase with demand. This change in composition has led to a significant decrease in demand for the third air-conditioned coaches, leaving the middle class at a disadvantage.
Sleeper coaches have long been the preferred mode of travel for Indians, particularly the marginal and middle class, who cannot afford the higher fares of air-conditioned coaches. Despite this, the Central Government has chosen to replace sleeper coaches in Mail/Express trains with third air-conditioned coaches. In the case of the Mumbai-bound Duronto Express, the number of sleeper coaches has been reduced to just two, causing inconvenience to ordinary travelers. The change in composition came into effect on June 15, leading to dissatisfaction among the local officials and the general public.
The current composition of the Mumbai Duronto Express consists of one IAC (First AC), three 2A (Second AC), fifteen 3A (Third AC), two SL (Sleeper), and one guard-cum-brake van. The replacement of sleeper coaches with third air-conditioned coaches has drawn criticism from Basant Shukla, Secretary of Bhartiya Yatri Kendra (BYK). Shukla believes that the Railways' decision is aimed at generating profit at the expense of the common man. The reduction in sleeper coaches has led to a decrease in seat availability, particularly for families, and the implementation of dynamic pricing has resulted in increased ticket prices.
Brijbhushan Shukla from RailYatri Kendra echoes the concerns of common travelers, stating that the forceful upgrade of travel options is detrimental to those who travel with families. The reduction in sleeper coaches has led to reduced seat availability. Additionally, with the implementation of dynamic pricing, ticket prices for the Duronto Express are expected to rise, potentially reaching the same level as AC class tickets. Despite these increased costs, the amenities provided to passengers remain unchanged. The introduction of a stoppage at Badnera has also benefited unauthorized vendors, raising further concerns.
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