Indian Railways has tightened rules regarding smoking within railway premises and trains. Under the Jan Vishwas (Provision Amendment) Act, 2026, the penalty for smoking has been increased to ₹2,000. These new regulations became effective from July 1, 2026, following a gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Railways on June 19, 2026.
What are the penalties for smoking and other violations
Smoking is strictly banned in train coaches, toilets, corridors, and railway station areas. If a passenger refuses to pay the ₹2,000 fine on the spot, they can be produced before a competent court. In such cases, the court may impose a fine up to ₹5,000, with a minimum of ₹2,000 mandatory unless special reasons are provided. Additionally, the railway staff can seize the ticket or pass and remove the person from the train.
Other new fines and penalties implemented
The railway ministry has introduced strict penalties for several other offenses to maintain discipline and safety. The updated fine structure is as follows:
| Violation | Penalty Amount |
|---|---|
| Smoking in Railway Premises | ₹2,000 |
| Traveling in Ladies Coach (for Men) | ₹2,500 |
| Unauthorized Hawking or Begging | ₹2,000 (Higher penalty/jail for repeat offense) |
| Traveling Without Ticket | Minimum ₹500 + Actual Fare |
How to report violations during travel
Passengers can report any rule violations or grievances through multiple official channels. Complaints can be lodged with the Train Captain or Ticket Collector. For digital reporting, passengers can use the Railway Helpline number 139, the Rail Madad app, or the official X (formerly Twitter) handle of the railways.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happens if a passenger refuses to pay the smoking fine on the spot?
The person can be presented in a competent court where the fine can increase up to ₹5,000. Their ticket or pass may also be seized, and they can be removed from the train.
What is the fine for men traveling in ladies’ coaches under the new rules?
Male passengers traveling in coaches reserved for women will now be charged a penalty of ₹2,500.