Indian Railways: Strict Penalties for Loud Mobile Use
The era of loud phone conversations and watching videos on speaker mode during train journeys is coming to an end. To ensure a peaceful and comfortable environment for all passengers, Indian Railways has introduced a strict loud mobile use penalty to curb the nuisance caused by improper mobile etiquette.
New Penalties Under the Railways Act
The enforcement of these rules is rooted in Section 145(2) of the Railways Act, which has been updated following the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026. Railway authorities are now empowered to take swift action against those who disturb the decorum of the coaches with loud audio or video content.
Fines and Imprisonment Details
The penalties vary depending on the severity and frequency of the disturbance:
- First-time offenders: Passengers may face a fine of up to ₹1,000. Additionally, they risk being removed from the railway premises or the train, which will result in the forfeiture of their ticket or pass.
- Persistent violators: For those who refuse to stop the disturbance after being instructed by railway staff, the consequences are much harsher. They could face simple imprisonment for up to six months, a fine of up to ₹5,000, or both.
Active Enforcement Across Railway Zones
The crackdown has gained significant momentum following a specific circular issued by Southern Railway on October 16, 2026. This directive instructed all divisions to enforce the rules strictly and submit implementation reports by Tuesday, October 20, 2026. This move follows guidance on mobile etiquette previously issued by the Railway Board in 2012.
It is not just the Southern zone; both the Northern and Western Railway zones have joined this initiative. The crackdown comes in response to a surge in complaints received through the Rail Madad system, with passengers—particularly those in AC coaches—frequently reporting disturbances caused by loud mobile usage.
Awareness Drives and Passenger Guidelines
To prevent legal action, railway officials are focusing on education. Ticket examiners and commercial staff have been instructed to lead awareness campaigns. These drives are being conducted through:
- Public address systems inside trains and at stations.
- Notices displayed in English, Hindi, and various regional languages at stations and aboard trains.
Railway officials strongly urge all passengers to utilize earphones and maintain decorum to ensure a pleasant and comfortable journey for fellow travelers.