Southern Railway has issued a directive to passengers warning against playing music or videos on mobile phone speakers and engaging in loud conversations inside trains and at railway stations. This measure aims to maintain a peaceful environment for all travelers. Passengers who violate this rule may face a fine of up to ₹1,000 and can be removed from railway premises.
- Playing music or videos on phone speakers in trains or stations can lead to a ₹1,000 fine.
- Loud conversations inside trains and railway premises are discouraged to avoid disturbing others.
- Passengers are advised to use earphones to enjoy audio content without causing inconvenience.
- Repeated nuisance may result in imprisonment up to six months or a fine up to ₹5,000.
- Ticket examiners and other authorized staff can impose penalties for violations.
Why has Southern Railway introduced fines for playing music on phone speakers?
With the widespread availability of mobile internet, more passengers have been playing videos and music on their phone speakers in public spaces such as trains and railway stations. This behavior has caused discomfort and inconvenience to fellow travelers. To address this issue, Southern Railway has introduced fines and stricter enforcement to ensure a peaceful travel environment.
What are the specific rules regarding noise and nuisance on railway premises?
The rules are based on Section 145 of the Railways Act, amended by the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026. This section prohibits nuisance and indecent behavior on railway property and inside trains. Passengers causing disturbance by playing audio on speakers or making loud conversations can be penalized and removed from the premises.
How much is the fine for playing music or videos on phone speakers?
The fine for playing music or videos on phone speakers inside trains or at railway stations is ₹1,000. If a passenger continues to cause nuisance after being warned by authorized railway staff, the punishment can increase to imprisonment for up to six months, a fine of up to ₹5,000, or both.
Who can enforce these rules and impose fines?
Competent commercial staff, including ticket examiners and other authorized railway employees, have the authority to impose penalties for violations of these noise regulations. They can also remove passengers from railway premises if necessary.
How is Southern Railway informing passengers about these new rules?
Southern Railway has instructed its divisions to educate passengers by making announcements in regional languages, Hindi, and English over public address systems. Notices will also be displayed to inform travelers about the impact of playing audio on speakers and the importance of using earphones.
What should passengers do to avoid fines and inconvenience?
Passengers are advised to avoid playing music or videos on their phone speakers and to keep conversations at a low volume while traveling or at railway stations. Using earphones is recommended to enjoy audio content without disturbing others.
When will Southern Railway review the implementation of these measures?
Southern Railway has asked its divisions to take necessary action immediately and submit reports on the implementation of these rules to the headquarters by October 20, 2026.
