Don't Litter! Indian Railways Hikes Fines to ₹2,000 for Spitting & Garbage
Indian Railways is taking a massive step towards cleanliness and hygiene. To combat littering and unhygienic practices across stations, junctions, and trains, the Railway Board has introduced much stricter regulations that are now in effect.
A Massive Jump in Penalties
In a significant move to enforce discipline, the maximum penalty for offenders has been increased fourfold. While the previous maximum fine was capped at Rs 500, violators can now face penalties of up to Rs 2,000.
These new rules are enforced under the Indian Railway Station Rules, 2012 and the Jan Vishwas (Amendment) Act, 2026. Following a gazette notification on August 25, 2026, the Railway Board issued a commercial circular on September 18, 2026, instructing regional railways to implement and spread awareness about these updated rules. The initial notification was issued on August 24 by Shivendra Shukla, Executive Director (Passenger Marketing) of the Railway Board.
Strictly Prohibited: What Could Cost You ₹2,000?
The Railway Board has clearly defined several activities that are now subject to these higher penalties. To avoid heavy fines, passengers and visitors must refrain from the following prohibited activities:
- Throwing garbage or littering in railway premises.
- Spitting in stations or inside train coaches.
- Cooking, bathing, urinating, or defecating within railway areas.
- Feeding animals or birds.
- Washing clothes, utensils, or vehicles on railway property.
- Unauthorized storage of personal belongings.
- Defacing railway property by writing, drawing, or pasting posters without permission.
Mandatory Rules for Vendors and Enforcement
Cleanliness is not just a passenger responsibility; it is now a mandate for businesses as well. Authorized vendors and hawkers are now required to:
- Maintain dustbins at their designated workplaces.
- Ensure the proper disposal of all waste generated.
To ensure these rules are understood by