UK train companies have announced above inflation fare increases making Britain the most expensive destination for commuters in Europe.
Season and saver ticker fares are expected to rise by 4.8 percent on average with other fares and returns increasing by 5.4 percent.
Train companies say the increases are to pay for improvements to infrastructure and services.
But passenger groups and political opposition parties have critised the increases in fares saying it will discourage people from using the railways.
The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) called for an overhaul of the entire ticketing system and described the hikes as "rip-off rail-fare rises".
"The rail network needs a fares and ticketing structure designed to encourage people out of their cars and onto trains and a joined-up transport policy capable of delivering extra capacity to cope with growing demand", says RMT general secretary Bob Crow.
In July this year, the UK Government published its ten-year plan promising improved rail infrastructure, overhauled fare systems and new commuter rail links across the country.
The new fares are expected to come into effect in the New Year.
By Ozge Ibrahim
