Jagran Correspondent, Bhagalpur: In an effort to curb unauthorised, ticketless travel and ensure smooth operations, Indian Railways has increased the penalty for travelling without a valid ticket to Rs 500. The national transporter has strongly urged passengers to purchase valid tickets and ensure they board the correct train, class, and coach.
Minimum Fine For Ticketless Travel Doubled
Indian Railways has doubled the minimum fine for ticketless travel from Rs 250 to Rs 500. Under these new rules, passengers caught travelling on a train or roaming on platforms without a valid ticket will face a minimum penalty of Rs 500.
"As per the provisions of the Jan Vishwas Act, 2026, the minimum penalty under Sections 137 & 138 of the Railway Act, 1989 has been increased from Rs 250 to Rs 500 with effect from 20 June 2026. Passengers are requested to travel with a valid ticket and follow railway rules to avoid penalties," the national transporter said.
Railway Imposes Strict Penalties For Other Key Penalties
- Passengers caught travelling on a ticket in someone else's name, or using a transferred ticket, will have the ticket confiscated immediately and face a minimum cash fine of Rs 500.
- To ensure cleanliness and safety, anyone caught begging or vending without permission on station premises or inside trains will be hit with a hefty fine of Rs 2,000.
- Smoking anywhere on railway premises or inside a train now attracts a fine of Rs 2,000. Additionally, anyone found creating a disturbance or disrupting the peace under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicants will be fined Rs 2,000.
- Keeping women's safety paramount, the Railway Board has sharply increased the penalty for male passengers who illegally board or occupy seats in women's reserved coaches. Violators will now face a fine of Rs 2,500 and immediate removal.
- Passengers carrying flammable, explosive, or other prohibited dangerous materials on trains will face strict action and a hefty penalty of up to Rs 10,000.
(With Inputs From Jagran.com)