The railway has expressed concern that playing content loudly on mobile phones in public spaces is becoming increasingly common. According to Southern Railway, the easy availability of mobile internet has made it more frequent for passengers to watch videos and play other content in speaker mode, causing inconvenience to fellow travellers and disturbing the atmosphere during journeys.
₹1,000 Fine Possible; Passengers May Also Be Removed from Train Coaches
Southern Railway has instructed officials to act in such cases by invoking the relevant legal provisions. According to the latest circular, passengers found responsible may be fined up to ₹1,000 and, if necessary, removed from the train coach. If a passenger creates a disturbance over the matter, legal action may also be initiated.
The railway has referred to Section 142 of the Railways Act in its instructions. The circular states that ticket checkers (TCs) and senior railway officials can impose fines under the prescribed provisions. The Railway Board has also been informed about the matter.
Southern Railway has additionally cited an earlier directive issued by the Railway Board in July 2012. At the time, the board had expressed concern over habits such as speaking loudly on mobile phones, engaging in lengthy conversations and using objectionable ringtones in public spaces.
With mobile internet access and the habit of watching videos on phones becoming increasingly common, Southern Railway has now highlighted the need to make passengers aware of the rules once again.
Awareness Campaign to Be Conducted in Hindi, English and Regional Languages
Southern Railway has asked its divisions to inform passengers about the rules through public announcement systems at railway stations and inside trains. The awareness campaign will be conducted in regional languages as well as Hindi and English.
Passengers will be urged to avoid playing videos or music at high volume and speaking loudly on their phones, helping prevent inconvenience to others in shared public spaces.
The circular also draws attention to Section 270 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which relates to public nuisance. However, the law applicable to a particular incident will depend on its facts and the relevant legal provisions.
Southern Railway's instructions seek to address behaviour that can disrupt the travel experience of fellow passengers. The proposed awareness measures, along with the possibility of fines, removal from train coaches and legal action where applicable, underline the railway's efforts to discourage loud mobile phone use in stations and trains.
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