Indian Railways Updates Passenger Rules: 8 Violations That Can Now Cost You Dearly

The Ministry of Railways has implemented stricter monitoring of several provisions under the Railways Act, 1989, making violations such as travelling without a ticket, littering, entering reserved coaches and carrying prohibited items more expensive for travellers. Under the updated rules, Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel and Travelling Ticket Examiners (TTEs) can collect fines on the spot. Those who simply refuse to pay may be brought up before a court and could face imprisonment.

What Are The New Railway Rules?

As per a news report by the Dainik Bhaskar, travelling without a proper ticket or using an incorrect or previously used ticket will attract the full fare for the journey, along with a hefty fine. If the boarding station cannot be identified, the fare will be calculated from the train’s origin or the station where the ticket is checked. The minimum penalty for this will be ₹500. Additionally, passengers who occupy another person’s booked seat or berth and refuse to vacate it may also be fined.

Littering, spitting, drinking alcohol and creating a commotion at railway stations or inside trains can now attract an on-the-spot fine of ₹1,000. Not only this, but repeat offenders may face up to six months’ imprisonment and may be fined up to ₹5,000, or both.

Also Read: No Earphones In Chennai Metro? Pay Fine Of Up To ₹2,500 For Violating Rules

Additional Penalties For Highly Serious Violations

If reports are to be believed, male passengers entering coaches or waiting rooms that are strictly reserved for women can face an immediate fine of ₹2,500. If the matter is brought to court, the penalty may increase to ₹5,000. However, this provision does not apply to transgender passengers.

Another rule also states that carrying flammable, explosive or other dangerous goods is forbidden. Such items can be seized, and offenders may face a minimum fine of ₹10,000, payment for any damage caused and up to one year’s imprisonment if convicted.

Going into restricted railway areas such as tracks, signalling zones or control rooms without authorisation can result in an on-the-spot fine of ₹2,000. Failure to comply may lead to court proceedings, where offenders can face up to three months in jail, a fine of ₹5,000, or both.

Also Read: Mumbai Metro 3: Poor Last-Mile Connectivity To Inadequate Escalators, Report Flags Aqua Line Issues

The railways have also tightened rules against unauthorised vending, hawking and begging at stations and on trains. Violators can be fined ₹2,000, while repeat offenders may face stricter penalties, including imprisonment.

What are your thoughts about the new rules?

Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons