Loud Phone Calls, Music on Speakers in Train May Cost ₹5,000 in Fines, 6 Months in Jail

Passengers who play music or videos on their mobile phones without earphones or make loud calls that disturb fellow travellers could face penalties under railway rules. Western Railway has urged commuters to keep noise levels down and use their devices responsibly on trains and railway premises.

The move aims to prevent noise-related disputes and ensure a more comfortable journey, particularly in crowded train compartments where loud conversations and audio played through phone speakers can disturb others.

What Penalties Can Passengers Face?

Railway authorities have cited Section 145 of the Railways Act, which deals with nuisance and disruptive behaviour on trains and railway premises.

Under the amended provision, a passenger found causing a nuisance may face removal from the railway, forfeiture of their ticket or pass, and a fine of up to ₹1,000.

If the passenger continues the nuisance after being directed to stop by an authorised railway employee, the penalty may increase to simple imprisonment of up to six months, a fine of up to ₹5,000, or both.

However, these penalties do not apply automatically to every phone call or instance of loud music. The circumstances and whether the conduct amounts to a nuisance are relevant.

Railway Staff to Raise Awareness

Western Railway has urged passengers to avoid playing songs and videos through mobile phone speakers and to use earphones or headphones instead. Commuters have also been asked to keep their voices low while making calls and respect those travelling around them.

Railway authorities plan to spread awareness through public announcements in multiple languages and notices at stations and inside trains, reminding passengers to follow the guidelines.

What Passengers Should Do

• Keep phone conversations quiet, particularly in crowded coaches.
• Use earphones or headphones to listen to music and watch videos.
• Avoid playing audio through mobile phone speakers.
• Do not disturb passengers who are resting or sleeping.
• Follow instructions from authorised railway staff.

The railway advisory is intended to encourage considerate behaviour, while legal action may follow when conduct amounts to a nuisance under the applicable provisions.