Railways hiked fare for short distance trains; wondering why? Heres the reason

The Railways addressed concerns raised over the increase in ticket fares for short-distance passenger trains, the national carrier said that the "slightly high fares" are only to discourage unnecessary travel. The railways came under fire from daily commuters, who are feeling the pinch of the rise in the rail fares. However, as the coronavirus is still around and infact worsening in some states, visitors from many states are being subjected to screening and are discouraged to travel.