Indian Railways Raises Maximum Penalty for Littering and Defacement to ₹1000
The Indian Ministry of Railways has introduced stricter cleanliness regulations to improve hygiene across the railway network. Passengers must now be extra cautious about station and train cleanliness as the maximum fine has been doubled.
Indian Railways implements the Indian Railways Penalties for activities affecting cleanliness at railway premises Amendment Rules 2026.
The official gazette published these updated rules on August 24 2026.
The maximum fine for littering and sanitation violations on trains and platforms is raised from ₹500 to ₹1000.
Authorized railway officials include station masters station managers and ticket collectors for enforcement.
Prohibited Activities and Fines
Under the updated guidelines released by the ministry a wide range of activities are now subject to strict penalties. Passengers are prohibited from littering or abandoning trash outside designated dustbins. Common violations like spitting unauthorized writing or painting on railway property and pasting posters will invite heavy fines.
Furthermore activities such as cooking bathing urinating defecating feeding animals or birds washing vehicles utensils or clothes and storing goods in unauthorized areas are strictly penalized unless specific facilities are provided. Any action that results in the damage or defacement of railway property is also banned.
Enforcement and Vendor Responsibilities
Enforcement of these rules is vested in authorized officials, including station masters, station managers, ticket collectors from the commercial department, and personnel of equivalent rank from the operations department. If an offender fails to pay the fine on the spot, they may be presented before a competent court, which holds the authority to impose an additional penalty of up to ₹2,000.
Additionally, authorized vendors and hawkers are now legally obligated to maintain trash receptacles and ensure the proper disposal of waste. These enhanced regulations aim to bolster hygiene standards across the entire railway network and deter passengers from engaging in activities that degrade the cleanliness or physical integrity of railway premises.