GUWAHATI: Indian Railways has increased the minimum penalty for ticketless travel from ₹250 to ₹500 under the provisions of the Jan Vishwas Act, 2026, in a move aimed at curbing unauthorised travel and improving compliance with railway regulations.
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In a statement issued on June 20, the national transporter said the revised penalties under Sections 137 and 138 of the Railway Act, 1989, have come into effect. Passengers have been advised to carry valid tickets and follow railway rules to avoid penalties.
The Railway Board has informed all zonal railways that the legislation has received Presidential assent. While the amendment took effect on June 20, railway officials indicated that its full implementation is expected shortly, likely from July 1, through a separate notification.
Under the amended provisions, passengers travelling without a valid ticket or using an already-utilised ticket will be required to pay the applicable fare along with excess charges, subject to a minimum penalty of ₹500. Failure to pay could lead to legal proceedings before a competent court.
The revised rules also impose a minimum liability of ₹500 on passengers found travelling using another person's ticket. Such tickets will be forfeited, and the passenger will have to pay the fare and excess charges.
Several other penalties have also been increased. Unauthorised hawking and begging in trains and railway premises will now attract a fine of ₹2,000, while repeat offenders may face imprisonment of up to one year.
Passengers causing nuisance, using abusive or obscene language, interfering with railway amenities, or inconveniencing fellow travellers can be fined up to ₹1,000. Those found intoxicated and creating disturbances may be removed from trains or stations and face additional penalties.
The amendments further prescribe a ₹2,500 penalty for men occupying seats, berths or coaches reserved for women, with railway staff authorised to remove such passengers. Carrying prohibited or dangerous goods on trains could attract a minimum fine of ₹10,000.
Additionally, trespassing in passenger areas will invite a penalty of ₹500, while authorised railway personnel will have the power to remove unauthorised hawkers, beggars and other violators from railway premises.
