# Special trains less attractive due to high fares and delays

> Special trains face lower passenger interest because of higher costs, longer travel times, and frequent delays.
- Title: Special trains less attractive due to high fares and delays
- Summary: Special trains face lower passenger interest because of higher costs, longer travel times, and frequent delays.
- Keywords: special trains, railway ministry, waiting lists, train fares, delays in trains, journey times, passenger preference, The Economic Times
- Source: The Economic Times — https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/railways/high-fares-longer-journeys-delays-make-special-trains-less-attractive-to-passengers-officials/articleshow/135637128.cms
- Author: PTI
- Published: 2026-11-07T12:47:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: special trains, railway ministry, waiting lists, train fares, delays in trains, journey times, passenger preference
## Special trains face passenger preference issues
Railway officials admit special trains are less popular than regular trains due to higher fares, longer journey times, and poor punctuality.
## Price comparison: Special vs regular trains
Special train AC 3-tier fare for New Delhi-Patna route is Rs 1,745 versus regular Sampoorna Kranti Express at Rs 1,390.
## Journey time differences
Special train takes 22 hours and 55 minutes versus regular Sampoorna Kranti Express completing the journey in 13 hours and 8 minutes.
## Delays impact passenger experience
Special trains often arrive late, causing journeys of 25 to 30 hours instead of the scheduled time.
## Waiting list issues
Regular trains have longer waiting lists or 'Regret' status indicating passenger numbers exceed permissible limits.
## Railway ministry's response
Officials suggest lowering special train fares to improve passenger preference and reliability.
## Key takeaway

Railway officials say special trains are less popular than regular trains due to higher fares, longer journey times, and poor punctuality.