Indian Railways: Indian Railways takes huge decision. Indian Railways has doubled the fines against ticketless travelers, increasing its crackdown. Under the new rules, a minimum fine of Rs 500 will be imposed for anyone caught traveling without a ticket, compared to Rs 250 previously. Passengers will also be required to pay the full fare. This change was implemented by amending Sections 137 and 138 of the Railway Act under the Public Trust Act 2026.
The Railways has also imposed a minimum fine of Rs 10,000 for carrying flammable and hazardous materials on trains. Action will also be taken against those traveling on tickets booked in someone else’s name. The Railways’ aim is to ensure compliance with the rules and make the travel system safer. Chandan Kumar Karna, reporting from Katihar, shares that Indian Railways has recently revised the Railway Act of 1989, elevating fines for various offenses. A gazette notification released by the Indian Government on June 19, 2026, indicates that the amendments under the Public Trust (Amendment Provisions) Act, 2026, will be in effect from June 20, 2026.
The Railway Board has directed all divisions and zonal railways to inform their officers and staff about the updated regulations. Ticket inspectors and field personnel have been briefed on the new rules by the Railway Administration. Notable changes include an increase in the minimum additional charge from Rs 250 to Rs 500 for traveling without a ticket or using an irregular one. Traveling with someone else’s ticket will lead to confiscation of the ticket and a minimum additional charge of Rs 500.
Other fine categories include:
– Hawking or begging on railway premises could incur fines of up to 2,000 rupees.
– Disturbances caused under the influence of alcohol may result in a fine of up to 1,000 rupees or community service.
– Trespassing on railway premises could lead to penalties ranging from 500 rupees to 5,000 rupees.
Unauthorized entry of men into women-reserved compartments could result in fines up to Rs 2,500. Furthermore, a minimum penalty of Rs 10,000 is set for carrying objectionable or dangerous items.
A new regulation has been introduced by the Railway Board, effective June 20, for carrying objectionable or dangerous items, with a minimum penalty of up to 10,000 rupees.
Passengers are urged by the railway administration to adhere to the rules during their journey and carry valid tickets only. Officials state that the revised penalty provisions aim to uphold discipline, safety, and revenue protection in the railways. Anup Kumar Singh, Senior DCM of Katihar Railway Division, mentioned that fines under sections 137 and 138 of the Railway Act have been raised. This information has been communicated to all railway officers and Forest Department employees involved in ticket checking, starting from June 20. All ticket checking staff have been instructed to comply with these rules outlined in the new government guideline.