Planning to travel by train? Make sure you know the latest Indian Railways rules before your journey.
The Railways has increased fines for several common violations, including travelling without a ticket, smoking, begging, unauthorized selling, and carrying dangerous items.
In many cases, passengers can be fined on the spot. The new rules aim to improve passenger safety, maintain discipline, and reduce rule violations across trains and railway stations.
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Travel Smart to Avoid Heavy Penalties
A small mistake during your train journey could now lead to a much bigger fine than before. Knowing these rules in advance can help you avoid unnecessary trouble and extra expenses.
Here are the seven railway mistakes that can now cost you more.
1. Travelling Without a Ticket
Passengers caught travelling without a valid ticket can face an on-the-spot penalty. Along with the ticket fare, the Ticket Examiner (TTE) can also impose a fine.
The exact penalty depends on factors such as the distance travelled, the class of travel, and the nature of the violation.
2. Entering a Women’s Reserved Coach
Male passengers travelling in a coach reserved for women without a valid reason can face legal action and a fine.
The amount of the penalty is decided based on the circumstances of the case.
3. Smoking Inside Trains or Railway Stations
Smoking cigarettes, beedis, or any tobacco product inside trains, on platforms, or anywhere on railway premises can now attract a fine of up to ₹2,000.
Earlier, the maximum fine was only ₹100. If the fine is not paid on the spot, the matter can be taken to court, where the penalty may go up to ₹5,000.
4. Misusing Railway Facilities
Passengers who intentionally damage or misuse railway property such as waiting rooms, reserved seats, platforms, or other passenger facilities can face stricter penalties.
The Railways has increased fines to discourage such activities.
5. Selling Goods Without Permission
Selling food, toys, or any other products inside trains or at railway stations without official permission is now a serious offence.
The maximum fine has been increased from ₹100 to ₹2,000.
6. Begging on Trains or Railway Stations
Begging inside trains or at railway stations can now result in a fine of up to ₹2,000.
Earlier, the maximum penalty for this offence was ₹100.
7. Carrying Dangerous Goods
Passengers carrying flammable, explosive, or other prohibited items during train travel can face a fine of up to ₹10,000.
Earlier, the maximum fine was ₹1,000. In serious cases, legal action and even imprisonment may also be imposed depending on the nature of the offence.