Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Oct 5: Considered one of the safest and most comfortable modes of transport, Indian Railways carries millions of passengers across the country every day. While the railways continue to upgrade facilities for better passenger comfort, travellers are also required to strictly follow certain rules — one of the most important being that every passenger must travel only in the coach specified on their ticket.
If a passenger is found travelling in the wrong coach — even by mistake — they could face a penalty or imprisonment under railway rules. For instance, even if you hold a valid Sleeper or AC ticket, you cannot travel in a different reserved coach or special compartment.
Pantry car travel strictly prohibited
Most long-distance trains have a pantry car for food preparation and service. Only authorized catering staff are allowed inside this compartment. Passengers found travelling or loitering inside the pantry car can face heavy fines or jail terms as per railway regulations.
Reserved coaches for differently-abled passengers
Similarly, the coaches reserved for differently-abled passengers are strictly meant for them. These compartments are specially designed with wide doors, wheelchair space, and comfortable seating for their convenience. They are usually attached next to the engine or near the guard’s cabin. Any unauthorized passenger found occupying this coach may be penalized or arrested.
General ticket holders must not enter reserved coaches
Passengers holding general or unreserved tickets must travel only in general compartments. Travelling in 1st AC, 2nd AC, 3rd AC, or Sleeper Class with a general ticket is a punishable offence. If caught, passengers will have to pay a fine, and failure to do so could lead to imprisonment.
New rule at major stations
According to a new regulation, only passengers with confirmed tickets will be allowed to wait at certain railway stations. This rule has already been implemented at New Delhi, Anand Vihar, Surat, Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Patna stations. Ticket sales will now be limited strictly according to the train’s seating and berth capacity.
With these measures, Indian Railways aims to ensure a safer, more disciplined, and comfortable journey for all passengers.