Indian Railways has stepped up efforts to curb noise and disturbances caused by passengers playing music or videos on mobile phones using speaker mode and making loud phone calls during train journeys. Southern Railway has directed its divisions to issue public announcements and display notices asking passengers to use earphones and avoid loud conversations inside trains and on railway premises.
The directive follows complaints that loud audio and prolonged phone conversations disturb fellow passengers and affect their comfort during travel. Railway divisions have been asked to spread awareness through announcements in regional languages, Hindi and English, as well as notices at stations and inside trains.
₹1,000 Fine for Creating a Nuisance
The Southern Railway communication refers to Section 145 of the Railways Act, as amended through the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026. Under the applicable provisions, passengers who create a nuisance may be removed from railway premises and face a penalty of up to ₹1,000. The law also provides for imprisonment of up to six months in applicable cases.
Authorised commercial railway staff, including personnel not below the rank of ticket examiner, may impose the specified penalty. Repeat or continuing violations can attract further action under the applicable legal provisions.
Passengers Asked to Use Earphones
The railway advisory asks passengers to avoid playing music or videos through mobile speakers and refrain from loud conversations while travelling. Passengers are encouraged to use earphones, keep phones on silent or vibration mode, lower ringtone volumes and keep conversations brief.
The measures are intended to improve the travel experience, particularly in shared coaches where loud audio can disturb passengers trying to rest or work.
Awareness Measures Across Railway Divisions
Southern Railway has asked its divisions to conduct awareness campaigns and report on implementation by October 20. The directive reinforces existing provisions against nuisance on railway premises rather than establishing a blanket ban on mobile phone use.
Passengers can continue using their phones, but playing audio aloud or speaking loudly in a way that disturbs others may invite action. The Railways is urging travellers to follow basic public etiquette and help maintain a quieter environment throughout their journey.
