Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jul 1: Train passengers will have to pay higher penalties for several offences from July as revised provisions under the railway law come into effect. The changes increase financial penalties for violations including travelling without tickets, entering reserved coaches without authorisation and misuse of railway facilities.

The amendments have been introduced under the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026, which shifts the handling of certain minor offences from criminal proceedings to monetary penalties and recovery.

Under the revised provisions, passengers travelling without a valid ticket or pass will now have to pay the applicable fare along with additional charges. The amended Section 137 of the Railway Act mandates a minimum penalty of Rs 500 for ticketless travel, with the offence being largely dealt with through recovery instead of criminal action.

Penalties have also been increased for unauthorised entry into women-reserved coaches. Under the revised Section 162, a man entering or staying in a women’s coach can face a penalty of Rs 2,500 and may be removed by railway officials. If the penalty is not paid, the case can go to court, where a fine of up to Rs 5,000 may be imposed.

The revised rules also bring higher penalties for misuse of railway facilities. The earlier fine limit of Rs 150 has been increased, with the penalty now going up to Rs 2,000. Court proceedings will generally apply only in cases where the penalty amount remains unpaid.

Passengers found travelling on train roofs, steps or engines will also face stricter action. Such unsafe practices can attract a civil penalty of up to Rs 2,000. If the amount is not paid, the person may be produced before a court, which can impose a similar fine.

The revised system aims to make enforcement faster by focusing on financial penalties for minor offences rather than criminal procedures. However, failure to pay penalties can still lead to legal action.

With the new provisions coming into force from July 2026, railway passengers will need to ensure they carry valid tickets and follow travel rules to avoid higher financial penalties.