One of the most significant changes concerns Sections 137 and 138 of the Railways Act, which cover ticketless travel and journeys extending beyond the distance authorised by a ticket. Under the revised rules, the minimum fine has doubled from ₹250 to ₹500, in addition to the applicable fare.
The move is intended to curb fare evasion, strengthen adherence to railway regulations and safeguard railway earnings. The amendments do not alter the existing upper limit of punishment for travelling without a ticket. Courts may continue to impose a jail term of up to six months, a fine of up to ₹1,000, or both, based on the circumstances of the case.
Indian Railways has significantly increased penalties under Section 60(3) for unsafe travel practices, including riding on train roofs, footboards or locomotive engines. The maximum fine has been enhanced from ₹500 to a civil penalty of up to ₹2,000. Non-payment could result in the offender being taken before a court, which has the authority to impose a fine of up to ₹2,000.
Section 87(3), covering the unauthorised use of railway accommodation or facilities, has also been revised. The earlier ₹150 ceiling has been replaced with a civil penalty of up to ₹2,000, with court intervention largely reserved for cases where the penalty is not settled.
Section 162 has been strengthened to impose a ₹2,500 penalty on men found travelling in coaches or berths designated exclusively for women. Railway staff are authorised to remove offenders from the reserved coach.
Where the penalty remains unpaid, the matter may be taken before a court, which can levy a fine of up to ₹5,000. The amended law also excludes transgender persons from proceedings under the provision.
The new provisions introduce a civil penalty regime for many minor railway offences, replacing the earlier practice of criminal prosecution. At the same time, the law raises the fines applicable to these violations, meaning passengers can expect to pay more if they breach railway rules.
