The Railway Ministry has updated its penalty rules for passengers traveling without valid tickets after a gap of 13 years. An official order was sent to all zonal railways on June 18, 2026. These new regulations will be implemented across all Indian Railways services starting July 1, 2026.
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What are the new fines for ticketless travel and ticket misuse?
The minimum fine for traveling without a ticket has increased from ₹250 to ₹500. Passengers will also have to pay the actual fare for the distance they traveled. If someone is caught using another person’s ticket, they must pay the full fare plus a penalty of at least ₹500, or they may face legal action.
What are the penalties for other irregularities in trains?
The ministry has introduced strict fines for various disturbances and prohibited activities to ensure a safer journey for all passengers. These changes are part of the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026, which also allows for a 10% increase in fines every three years.
| Violation | Penalty/Action |
|---|---|
| Unauthorized Hawking or Begging | ₹2,000 fine (Repeat offenders: up to 1 year jail) |
| Men in Women’s Coaches | Up to ₹2,500 fine and removal from coach |
| Carrying Dangerous Goods | Minimum ₹10,000 penalty |
| Trespassing in passenger areas | ₹500 penalty |
| Nuisance or Intoxication | Removal from train and legal proceedings |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the new minimum fine for traveling without a ticket?
The minimum fine has been increased from ₹250 to ₹500. In addition to this fine, passengers must pay the applicable fare for the distance traveled.
What happens if a man is found in a women’s coach?
Men found in coaches or berths reserved for women can be fined up to ₹2,500 and will be removed by the railway staff.