Big July Updates: 5 New Rules That Affect Your Wallet, Travel & Fuel

Big July Updates: From cooking gas prices to train tickets and more, here’s a look at the five major rule updates starting today—and what they mean for you.

1. LPG Prices: Expect a Change

Every month, LPG (cooking gas) prices are revised on the 1st. In June, commercial (19 kg) cylinders dropped by ₹24, while domestic prices stayed steady. Now, from 1 July, domestic (14 kg) rates may change. Plus, expect fresh fuel cost updates for airlines too, which could slightly tweak airfares. Bottom line: keep an eye on your kitchen budget and flight ticket alerts. – 

2. HDFC Credit Card Fees: Watch the Fine Print

Big July Updates: If you use an HDFC Bank credit card:

• Paying utility bills (electricity, telecom, gas, etc.) may now come with new fees.

• A 1% fee will be applied to credit card transfers of more than ₹10,000 per month to digital wallets (such as Paytm, Mobikwik, or Ola Money).
  So if your routine includes big online wallet top-ups or bill payments, expect to factor in extra costs starting today.

3. ICICI Bank ATM & IMPS Charges: A Reminder

Big July Updates: ICICI Bank users, take note:

• Free ATM withdrawals reduced:
  – Metro Cities: Only five are free per month in metro areas, and each additional withdrawal costs ₹23.
  – Non-metro cities: Only 3 free/month, then ₹23 per transaction

• IMPS (instant bank transfer) charges kicking in:
  – Up to ₹1,000: ₹2.50 fee
  – Up to ₹1 lakh: ₹5
  – ₹1–5 lakhs: ₹15 
  To save money, think about using UPI transfers or other solutions for modest, regular transfers.

4. Indian Railways: Fares, Klick‑to‑Book & Waiting‑List Caps

Big July Updates: The railways are rolling out several changes today.

• Fare hike:
  – Non‑AC mail/express: +1 paisa/km
  – AC coaches: +2 paisa/km

• No rise for suburban & short trips:
  – Second-class & Monthly Season Tickets up to 500 km are exempt
  – But beyond 500 km, second-class fares now up by 0.5 paisa/km

• Tatkal only with Aadhaar verification:
  – Only users with linked and verified Aadhaar can book Tatkal tickets via IRCTC, cutting down misuse

• Chart prep 8 hours before departure:
  – You’ll know your seat status earlier—good news for wait-listed passengers

• Waitlist limit ≤25% of seats:
  – Less overcrowding on crowded routes; might make getting a confirmed ticket more competitive

These moves are part of a wider modernization effort that includes a revamped ticketing system by this December.

5. Delhi Bans Fuel for ‘End‑of‑Life’ Vehicles

Big July Updates: Starting today in Delhi:

• It is illegal to fuel up diesel vehicles that are more than ten years old and petrol vehicles that are more than fifteen years old, thereby grounding them.
  This CAQM-backed measure aims to curb pollution from older vehicles.

✅ Final Takeaway – Big July Updates

Big July Updates: From July 1, your gas cylinder, bank transactions, railway fares, and even vehicle usage (if you’re in Delhi) may see changes. Quick checklist:

Being alert can help you adjust spending habits and avoid surprises. Stay informed—because even small changes add up!