Railway Spitting, Littering Fine Doubled To ₹1,000 Under New 2026 Rules; Experts Stress Enforcement Over Penalties
Mumbai: Spitting, littering or creating unhygienic conditions on railway premises will now attract a penalty of Rs 1,000, double the earlier maximum fine of Rs 500. The Centre has notified the Railway Premises (Penalty for Activities Affecting Cleanliness) Amendment Rules, 2026, tightening provisions aimed at improving cleanliness at railway stations. Those who fail to pay the penalty can also be…
Mumbai's railway stations will now face stricter penalties for spitting, littering and unhygienic conditions, with fines doubled under new rules set to take effect in 2026. The maximum fine will rise from ₹500 to ₹1,000, and offenders who fail to pay may face court action for up to ₹2,000. While the higher penalty aims to deter such behaviour, experts stress that enforcement and awareness are equally important.
Kailash Verma, secretary of the Railway Passengers Association, argued that a change in people's mindset is necessary, suggesting that improved facilities and cleaner stations could encourage responsible behaviour. Commuters echoed this sentiment, acknowledging that while fines could act as a deterrent, catching offenders in crowded stations remains challenging.
The Railway authorities have already implemented technology, like German nano-technology-based anti-spitting paint, at heavily affected locations. However, the success of the Rs 1,000 penalty hinges on the Railways' ability to consistently identify and enforce the rules.
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