Indian Railways boasts one of the largest rail networks globally. Every day, millions of people travel by trains in India. Travelling by trains also requires adherence to certain rules and regulations and failure to do so is considered a violation of railway regulations. Here are some of the regulations that, if violated, can result in fines or even imprisonment.

Also read: Do you know the difference between Central, Terminus, and Junctions in India's Railway System?

Indian Railways

According to railway rules, passengers caught traveling without a ticket on Indian Railways face penalties, including imprisonment for up to six months or a maximum fine of Rs 1,000. Travelling in a different coach can also result in penalty. For example, if someone holds a sleeper coach ticket but travels in an AC coach, they must pay the fare difference between the AC and sleeper coach tickets if caught. Moreover, TTE may impose other penalty charges. 

Also read: Indian Railways Lower Berth Rules: Senior Citizens Get Priority for Lower Berths

Here are some other rules you should not violate:

•    If you have booked an online ticket, it is mandatory to carry an ID card. Failure to present your ID card to TTE may result in penalties in some cases.
•    Refrain from consuming alcohol before your train journeys. If caught, it will result in immediate removal from the train. You may also face a fine of Rs 500 or imprisonment for six months.
•    Young passengers caught traveling without a ticket may face a maximum fine of Rs 250 or more. 
•    Pulling the emergency chain without valid reason, as per Section 141 of the Indian Railways Act, can lead to imprisonment for up to one year. There may also be a fine of up to Rs 1,000 or both.
•    Smoking is strictly prohibited on trains, and a penalty of Rs 200 may be imposed if caught. 
•    Crossing railway tracks can result in a fine of Rs 1,000 or imprisonment as per railway regulations.

Also read: Trains of Dreams: Inside India’s luxury train where tickets cost Rs 20 lakh