The Railways has invoked Section 145 (2) (a) of the Railways Act, as amended by the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, to address passenger nuisance caused by mobile phone use in trains and railway premises.
Officials said passengers who use mobile phones on speaker mode or speak loudly in a manner that causes nuisance may be removed from railway premises and fined Rs 1,000. Continued violations after a warning from a competent railway official may attract six months' simple imprisonment and/or a fine of Rs 5,000.
The advisory highlights how loud and prolonged phone conversations, disturbing ringtones and audio played without headphones inconvenience fellow passengers. The problem is particularly disruptive in the quieter environment of air-conditioned coaches, where passengers expect a more peaceful journey.
Although the Railway Board directed railway zones to curb the practice as early as 2012, the measure had a limited effect in many areas. The issue has regained attention following the recent amendments under the Jan Vishwas Act.
Frequent travellers have complained that passengers often watch films, television serials and social media reels on speaker mode. In some cases, children are allowed to watch cartoons without headphones, disturbing other passengers across entire coaches.
Railway officials have appealed to passengers to cooperate and follow basic public etiquette while travelling. Those experiencing persistent disturbances have been advised to alert railway staff or register complaints through the RailMadad portal.
Authorities have recommended using earphones for audio, keeping phone calls brief and speaking at a moderate volume. The measures aim to reduce noise-related disturbances and ensure a more comfortable journey for passengers across the railway network.
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