• Source:JND

The Indian Railways has informed the Central Information Commission (CIC) that the method used to calculate passenger train fares is a "trade secret" and a matter of commercial confidence. Therefore, it cannot be disclosed under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.

This observation was made when the CIC dismissed an application seeking detailed information regarding the base fare calculation mechanism for train tickets. The Railway Board stated that fare charging is class-based, and variations arise due to the amenities provided in different classes.

Fare Determination And Classification Method

The Railways stated, "As far as the classification method for fare determination of different classes is concerned, the policy mechanism falls under the realm of trade secrets and Intellectual Property Rights (IPR). Section 8 of the RTI Act provides a list of exemptions for information that should not be disclosed, such as national security, trade secrets, and personal privacy."

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Disclosure Of Pricing Not Justified In Public Interest

The Chief Public Information Officer (CPIO) of the Railway Board stated that the disclosure of information related to pricing is not justified in the public interest, as the benefits are distributed among the general public and are not retained for personal gain.

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The Commission noted that the CPIO had already provided all disclosable information and the general principles of railway rating policies, adding that they are not required to create data beyond the available records. Finding no infirmity in the response and noting the absence of the appellant during the hearing, Information Commissioner Swagat Das stated that no further intervention was necessary and disposed of the appeal.


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