Indian Railways New Rules: Smoking in trains, traveling without tickets! Know the penalty under the new rule

There is no excuse for breaking the rules in the train or at the station. To maintain safety and order of passengers, Indian Railways has significantly increased the penalty for various offences. Now you will have to pay a fine of up to Rs 2,000 if you smoke in the bathroom, near the door or in a prohibited place in the train.

Heavy fine for which crimes?

Fine of Rs 2,000 for smoking

If caught smoking in prohibited areas like train coach, bathroom, door area or station boundary, a fine of Rs 2,000 will be imposed.

Strict measures against begging and illegal gambling

A fine of Rs 2,000 has been imposed for begging or begging without permission on a railway track or in a train. If you commit the same crime repeatedly, legal action may be taken.

Additional penalty for traveling without ticket

If you travel without a valid ticket, you will have to pay a minimum fine of Rs 500 in addition to the fare. If you use someone else’s ticket or pass, you will be fined the same amount and the corresponding ticket will be cancelled.

Ladies reserved room, strict rules for male passengers

If a male passenger is found in a room or berth reserved for women, a fine of up to Rs 2,500 will be imposed. Besides, he will be immediately removed from that room.

Punishment for traveling while impaired or under the influence of alcohol

Disrespectful behaviour, creating disorder in the train or traveling in an inebriated state can attract a maximum fine of Rs 1,000. If necessary, the concerned passenger may be given a train name.

Penalties for other crimes

If you violate a traffic sign or rail guide: ₹500

Carrying dangerous goods in train or station: Fine up to Rs 10,000

Fine will be collected on the spot

According to the new rules, Railway Protection Force (RPF) will be able to collect the fine on the spot and give a receipt to the passenger. If someone refuses to pay the fine, a case will be filed against him and legal process will be initiated.

Indian Railways took strict action for railway passengers. Under the amended Public Trust Act, penalties have been increased for several offenses including smoking on train and railway tracks, traveling without ticket, begging, illegal solicitation and entering women’s reserved rooms. The new rules came into effect from June 19, 2026.