New Delhi: Playing videos at full volume, listening to music through mobile phone speakers and speaking loudly in public places can inconvenience fellow passengers. Indian Railways has highlighted concerns over such behaviour on trains and railway premises, warning that nuisance may attract penalties under the Railways Act.
The advisory draws attention to the importance of maintaining a comfortable environment in shared spaces, including railway stations and train compartments. Passengers who disturb others through loud audio or disruptive behaviour may face action under the applicable legal provisions.
Loud Phone Speakers Could Attract a Rs 1,000 Fine
Southern Railway has raised concerns about passengers playing music and other audio content through mobile phone speakers at railway stations and inside trains. Loud conversations and other activities that disturb fellow travellers have also been highlighted.
Under the provision cited in the advisory, Section 145 of the Railways Act deals with nuisance and certain forms of misconduct on railway premises. The reported penalty includes a fine of Rs 1,000 and possible removal from railway premises.
The consequences may be more severe in cases covered by the relevant legal provisions, particularly when a person continues the nuisance despite being warned by an authorised railway official. According to the report, such cases could attract simple imprisonment of up to six months and/or a fine of Rs 5,000.
Passengers should note that the exact penalty depends on the applicable provision and circumstances of the offence.
Why Has Southern Railway Issued the Warning?
In a recent circular to its divisions, Southern Railway headquarters reportedly highlighted instances of passengers playing music and audio through speakers at stations and inside trains.
The railway administration observed that these activities can adversely affect the comfort of other passengers. With greater access to mobile internet and streaming services, passengers can easily watch videos or listen to music while travelling, but playing such content loudly can disturb people nearby.
The advisory calls for measures to prevent inconvenience to fellow travellers and promote responsible behaviour in public spaces.
What Does Section 145 of the Railways Act Cover?
Section 145 of the Railways Act, 1989, addresses drunkenness, nuisance and certain acts of misconduct on railway premises. The provision covers conduct such as creating a nuisance, using abusive or obscene language and other specified behaviour that affects passengers or railway operations.
The advisory refers to Section 145(2)(a) in connection with the reported penalty. Passengers should consult the applicable statutory provision or official railway instructions for the precise legal consequences in a particular case.
To improve awareness, Southern Railway has reportedly instructed its divisions to make regular public announcements explaining the restrictions and the penalties associated with violations.
Who Can Impose the Penalty?
According to the report, the circular authorizes commercial staff not below the rank of ticket examiner to impose the prescribed penalty.
The instructions are intended to help railway personnel address complaints and discourage behaviour that affects the comfort of other passengers.
How Passengers Can Avoid Trouble
Passengers can help maintain a peaceful travel environment by following a few simple practices:
- Use headphones or earphones while listening to music or watching videos.
- Keep phone conversations at a reasonable volume.
- Avoid playing audio through mobile speakers in crowded areas.
- Respect fellow passengers, particularly in enclosed train compartments.
- Follow instructions issued by authorised railway personnel.
A Reminder to Respect Fellow Travellers
The advisory reinforces the need for responsible behaviour on trains and railway premises. Small actions, such as using headphones and keeping conversations quiet, can make journeys more comfortable for everyone.
Passengers are advised to follow official railway instructions and avoid activities that may amount to nuisance under the applicable law.
