PASSENGERS
Karnataka, Uber discuss passenger safety, regulatory issues and urban transport
Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge recently met with the Uber India Public Policy team to discuss urban mobility. The discussions emphasized passenger safety, regulatory issues, and improvements in urban commuting services. Kharge mentioned that further engagement with ride-hailing platforms will enhance public transportation. Additionally, initiatives like the Bengaluru Urban Mobility Mission are underway to address traffic management and safety.
High fares, longer journeys, delays make special trains less attractive to passengers: Officials
Railway Ministry claims to operate special trains during the festive rush, yet regular train demand exceeds their capacity. Special trains often have higher fares and longer travel durations compared to regular trains, which leads to disappointment among travelers. Many passengers are willing to book waiting-list tickets for regular trains due to their reliability and punctuality. Railway officials suggest lowering special train fares to attract more passengers amidst ongoing challenges.
Bengaluru-Goa Vande Bharat, which will pass through Western Ghats, to affect 15,000 passengers and disrupt schedules of 13 existing trains, including Gomteshwara Express and Vistadome service; check affected trains and other details
Vande Bharat news: The railway ministry plans to introduce the Vande Bharat Express service between Yeshwantpur and Madgaon. This service will affect approximately 15,000 regular passengers by rescheduling existing train services. Karwar-Yeshwantpur Express will arrive later, while Mangaluru Junction-Yeshwantpur Gomteshwara Express will undergo significant schedule changes. Other trains on this corridor will also face delays of 10 to 25 minutes. Passengers should remain aware of these changes and plan their travel accordingly.
Southern Railway runs 132 special trains, deploys extra RPF personnel to manage Diwali rush
Southern Railway managed the rise in passenger traffic during the Diwali season by operating special trains. A total of 132 special trains were run, along with additional coaches for 22 Mail and Express services. Key destinations linked include Madurai, Tirunelveli, and Bengaluru among other cities across India. Comprehensive security measures were implemented at major stations to ensure passenger safety and guidance.
Karmabhoomi Express fire: Passengers panic as four coaches catch fire near Sarai Banjara in Punjab
Four coaches of the Karmabhoomi Express caught fire near Sarai Banjara in Punjab, sparking panic among passengers on board. The exact reason for the fire is still unknown, prompting an urgent investigation by authorities. Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries or damage as officials work to gather more information about the event.
Passenger wins Rs 3,100 after taking IRCTC to court over just Re 1; Kerala man challenges train ticket refund shortfall; consumer court delivers verdict
A Kerala passenger won Rs 3,100 in compensation after taking IRCTC to the consumer commission over a Re 1 shortfall in a cancelled train ticket refund. The Kasaragod commission termed the shortfall a deficiency in service. Meanwhile, Indian Railways revised its confirmed ticket cancellation and refund rules in March 2026.

Indian auto dealers flag post-festive demand risks as vehicle stocks stay high
Indian auto dealers warned that high vehicle inventories and rising financing costs could hurt post-festive demand. Passenger vehicle stocks remained at 43-45 days despite record wholesale dispatches, though dealers expect strong retail sales in the coming weeks to help clear inventory, the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations said.

Iran war, doubling fuel prices knock 66% off Emirates' first-half profit
Emirates Group's first-half net profit plunged 66% to $1 billion as the Iran war disrupted flights across the Gulf and doubled jet fuel prices. Passenger numbers at Emirates airline fell 22%, while cargo revenue rose 52%. The Dubai-based group is relying on cash reserves as geopolitical uncertainty clouds its outlook.
Bringing gold jewellery, bars, coins from Dubai to India? Know how much a passenger can bring duty-free
A passenger who has been abroad for at least 6 months can bring up to 1 kg of gold, including bars, coins and ornaments, by paying a concessional duty in foreign currency. Ornaments studded with stones or pearls don't qualify for that concession. Know customs rules for different passengers for bringing gold from Dubai to India.

US airlines may face fresh scrutiny as Democrats plan probes into pricing and passenger rights
Following a significant midterm election victory, Democrats intend to scrutinize airlines regarding personalized pricing practices and passenger protection rules. The Federal Trade Commission has requested information from major airlines about the influence of personal data on pricing. Congress plans to revive protections that were previously withdrawn, including compensation for travel disruptions. Legislators are also exploring requirements for transparency in ticket pricing and additional passenger rights.

Man files case to end railway's 6 am-10 pm sleeping rule after unwell wife denied extra sleep; HC makes important observation for middle and upper berth passengers
The Madras High Court has refused to strike down the Indian Railways' rule allowing passengers to use sleeping berths in reserved coaches only between 10 pm and 6 am. Upholding the restriction, the court said it balances passengers' convenience by ensuring seating space during the day, while noting exemptions for sick passengers, persons with disabilities and pregnant women.

Indian car buyers trade up selectively as CNG, EVs gain ground over fuel; SUV growth reshapes price ladder
Indian passenger vehicle sales have shown a pronounced shift towards higher price bands and alternative fuel options. The ₹12 lakh-20 lakh segment grew significantly, while lower segments experienced a slight decline. Petrol vehicle registrations decreased, with CNG and electric vehicles gaining market share. Compact SUVs have become increasingly popular, reflecting changes in consumer preferences and technology advancements.

Cancelled flight ticket? GSTAT says airlines can refund GST to passengers and claim it back from the government
Taxpayer wins GST refund denial case after depositing GST on airline ticket with the govt and later refunding the GST back to passengers due to cancelled ticket; GSTAT orders GST department to issue GST refund with interest to taxpayer

Delhi airport working with regulators to further ease security clearance for transfer passengers
Delhi airport is working with security regulators to ease clearance procedures for transfer passengers, who account for 30-35% of its annual traffic, GMR Airports Executive Director S G K Kishore said. He also defended airport charges, saying higher infrastructure investments push up tariffs, which could decline over time.

15+ features of India's first Bullet Train: Not just 280 kmph speed, check its interiors, passenger facilities and advanced technology
India's first indigenous bullet train, B28, is designed to run at an operational speed of 249 kmph and a testing speed of 280 kmph. With eight coaches and a passenger capacity of around 557, it will feature Wi-Fi-based infotainment, multilingual information screens, ergonomic seating and modern safety systems. Trial runs on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor are targeted for May-June 2027.

India needs three national carriers to compete globally, says Adani Airports CEO
Adani Airports CEO Arun Bansal emphasized the need for three national carriers to cater to India's aviation demands. He stated that strengthening domestic airlines is crucial before embracing more international competition. Passenger traffic is expected to rise, requiring robust airline ecosystems and regulatory changes. Adani Airports plans to invest significantly in infrastructure to support this growth. The company aims to expand its capacity and participate in upcoming airport privatization initiatives.

Socha nhi tha plane ke neeche sona padega: SpiceJet’s SG-533 flight from Mumbai to Gorakhpur cancellation forces passenger to lie near aircraft, airline responds
A video showing SpiceJet passengers sleeping on the airport apron near an aircraft after the cancellation of Mumbai-Gorakhpur flight SG553 has surfaced online. The airline attributed the disruption to operating-hour restrictions at Gorakhpur's defence airport, while passengers questioned why they were allowed to board before the cancellation.

Making of Bullet Train: What India’s high-speed train will look like from inside; check out its high-tech interiors, passenger facilities & technology
Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has shared a video offering a glimpse inside India's first Bharat-made Bullet Train, being manufactured at BEML's Bengaluru facility for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor. The eight-car train will feature a test speed of 280 kmph, seating for around 557 passengers, accessible facilities, Wi-Fi-based infotainment and advanced safety and energy-efficient technologies.

Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train can travel at 249 kmph speed carrying up to 1,114 passengers with two 8-coach trains joined to form a 16-coach train; free Wi-Fi for passengers
India's first indigenous bullet train to run between Mumbai and Ahmedabad. Named as B-28 or Bharat 28, the train is nearing a crucial manufacturing milestone at BEML's Bengaluru facility. The eight-coach train will carry 557 passengers, operate at 249 kmph and feature Wi-Fi, accessible toilets and regenerative braking. Test runs are planned for 2027, with commercial operations targeted for August.
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