Rail passengers could face fine, jail time for loud calls, playing audio on speakers
The Southern Railway communication quoted Section 145(2) of the Railways Act, as amended through the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026.
Southern Railway has issued a directive stating that passengers who play music or videos on speaker mode, or make loud phone calls while at railway stations or inside trains, could face penalties. A letter dated October 16 directed divisions to make public announcements in regional languages and display notices warning about the impact of such behavior on fellow passengers.
The notice emphasized using earphones and refraining from loud conversations while traveling and in railway premises, warning that such conduct could lead to action under Section 145 of the Railways Act, carrying a fine of up to ₹1000 and/or imprisonment for up to six months. Competent commercial staff not below the rank of ticket examiner can impose the fine.
The Southern Railways cited the need to address the nuisance caused by passengers using mobile devices and the availability of mobile internet, leading to adverse effects on others' comfort. The directive aligns with a previous Railway Board communication from July 23, 2012, which highlighted complaints about loud phone conversations and objectionable ringtones inside train compartments, urging passengers to keep their mobiles on silent/vibration mode and to avoid talking loudly.
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