Train passengers should be careful about what they carry during their journey.
The government has significantly increased the penalty for carrying prohibited or offensive goods on trains in violation of railway rules.
Under the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026, the minimum fine for such offences has been raised to ₹10,000.
Earlier, the maximum penalty was only ₹500.
The new rules have been implemented through a notification issued by the Ministry of Railways.
Fine Increased 20 Times Under New Rules
The amendment relates to Section 165 of the Railways Act, 1989, which deals with the illegal transportation of offensive goods on trains.
Previously, passengers caught carrying such items could be fined up to ₹500 and held responsible for any damage or loss caused.
Now, the punishment has become much stricter.
Anyone carrying offensive goods or handing them over to the railway administration for transportation can face a minimum fine of ₹10,000.
They may also have to compensate for any injury, damage, or loss caused by the prohibited items.
What Does the Railway Act Say?
Under Section 67 of the Railways Act, passengers are not allowed to carry dangerous or offensive goods unless they follow prescribed rules.
If someone needs to transport such goods, they must:
Inform railway authorities in writing
Clearly label the package
Follow all safety guidelines issued by the railways
Railway officials have the authority to inspect suspicious packages and stop or remove goods that violate the rules.
These Items Should Not Be Carried on Trains
Railways have repeatedly warned passengers against carrying hazardous materials that could endanger fellow travelers and railway property.
Some commonly restricted or prohibited items include:
Gas cylinders
Firecrackers
Explosive materials
Inflammable oils
Portable stoves
Acid and corrosive substances
Thermit welding equipment
Other highly flammable items
Such materials can pose serious safety risks during train journeys.
Refusing to Pay the Fine Can Lead to Jail
The amended law also includes stricter provisions for those who refuse to comply.
If a passenger refuses to remove prohibited goods or pay the penalty, railway authorities can approach a court for action.
In such cases, the court may order:
A fine of at least ₹10,000
Imprisonment of up to one year
Or both, depending on the circumstances
Separate Punishment for Dangerous Goods
The Railway Act already has a separate provision under Section 164 for carrying dangerous goods.
Passengers found transporting dangerous goods in violation of railway rules can face:
Imprisonment of up to three years
A fine of up to ₹1,000
Or both
They may also be required to compensate for any damage, injury, or loss resulting from the offence.
What Passengers Should Keep in Mind
Before boarding a train, passengers should check whether the items they are carrying are allowed under railway regulations.
Carrying prohibited or hazardous materials can now result in a hefty penalty and even legal action.
With the new rules in force, following railway safety guidelines has become more important than ever.
