Indian Railways has revised its penalty structure for passengers violating travel rules, introducing stricter fines aimed at improving safety, discipline and passenger convenience across the railway network.

Under the new provisions approved by the Railway Board, passengers found travelling without a valid ticket or with an improper ticket will now have to pay a minimum penalty of ₹500 in addition to the applicable fare. Earlier, the minimum fine for such violations was ₹250.

The revision marks the first major change in railway penalty provisions since 2013. Railway officials said the move is intended to discourage ticketless travel and strengthen compliance with passenger regulations.

The railways have also tightened rules regarding the misuse of reserved tickets. If a passenger is found travelling on a ticket booked in another person's name, the ticket may be cancelled on the spot. Authorities can also initiate legal action against the individual for violating railway regulations.

Special emphasis has been placed on the safety of women passengers. According to the revised rules, unauthorized entry into women's coaches can attract a penalty of up to ₹2,500. Railway authorities believe stricter enforcement will help ensure safer travel environments for female passengers.

In addition, passengers found creating nuisance under the influence of alcohol, engaging in indecent behaviour, or spreading litter at railway stations and inside trains may face fines of up to ₹2,000.

The revised provisions also target unauthorized vendors and individuals involved in illegal hawking or begging within trains and station premises. Such violations can now attract penalties of up to ₹2,000.

Railway officials further stated that failure to pay the imposed fine could result in imprisonment ranging from three months to one year, depending on the nature of the offence and applicable legal provisions.

The railways said the updated penalties are part of broader efforts to improve passenger safety, maintain discipline and enhance overall travel experience across the country's railway network.