Indian Railways has increased the minimum penalty for passengers traveling without a valid ticket. The fine has been raised from ₹250 to ₹500. This decision comes under the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026, which modifies sections 137 and 138 of the Railways Act, 1989. The move aims to stop ticketless travel and reduce revenue loss.
What are the new penalty charges for railway violations
The Railway Board has updated the fine structure for various offenses to maintain discipline and safety. Apart from the ticketless travel fine, penalties for other unauthorized activities have also been increased. These rules are designed to ensure a better experience for passengers who hold valid tickets.
| Violation | Penalty Amount |
|---|---|
| Traveling without ticket (Min. Fine) | ₹500 |
| Unauthorized entry in Ladies Coach | ₹2,500 |
| Begging or unauthorized hawking | ₹2,000 |
| Carrying dangerous goods | Up to ₹10,000 |
| Traveling on another person’s ticket | Full fare + ₹500 fine |
| Nuisance or harassment under influence | ₹1,000 |
When do these new rules come into effect
The new penalties became effective around late June 2026. Some reports mention June 20, while others state July 1, 2026. However, officials confirmed the implementation by June 21, 2026. In Bhagalpur, a special drive was already conducted where 52 ticketless passengers were caught and a total fine of ₹42,000 was collected.
Railway officials stated that those who refuse to pay the fine may face legal action. This can include imprisonment for up to 6 months. This is the first time in 13 years that the minimum fine for ticketless travel has been increased, as the last hike happened in 2013 when it was raised from ₹50 to ₹250.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happens if a passenger travels on someone else’s ticket?
The ticket will be seized, and the passenger will have to pay the full fare along with a minimum additional charge of ₹500.
What is the penalty for entering a ladies coach without authorization?
Unauthorized entry into a ladies coach now attracts a penalty of ₹2,500.