Railways Tighten Rules: Fine for Carrying Hazardous Goods Raised to ₹10,000 Under New Law

Indian Railways has tightened penalties for passengers carrying hazardous or prohibited items on trains, with a minimum fine of ₹10,000 now applicable under the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026. 

The revised rules came into force in June 2026 and are aimed at strengthening passenger safety and reducing risks associated with dangerous materials transported on railway premises.

The move is part of broader efforts by the railways to modernize regulations and impose stricter consequences for violations that could endanger passengers, railway staff, and public property.

Railways Increase Penalties for Carrying Dangerous Goods

Under the amended Section 165 of the Railways Act, passengers found carrying offensive, inflammable, explosive, or otherwise hazardous materials will face a minimum penalty of ₹10,000.

The list of prohibited items includes petrol, diesel, kerosene, gas cylinders, stoves, fireworks, firecrackers, acids, corrosive chemicals, matchboxes, cigarettes, and other substances capable of causing accidents, fires, or damage to railway property.

In addition to the financial penalty, railway authorities have the power to seize such goods. Offenders may also be held liable for any injury, loss, or damage resulting from the transportation of these materials.

Jail Term Possible for Non-Compliance

The amended provisions further state that passengers who refuse to remove prohibited goods or fail to pay the prescribed penalty may face imprisonment of up to one year.

Courts may also impose a fine of at least ₹10,000 along with the jail term. The stricter framework reflects the railways' intent to deter unsafe practices and improve overall travel safety across the network.

Other Railways Offences Also Attract Higher Fines

The Jan Vishwas amendments have increased penalties for several other railway-related offences. Ticketless travel or fraudulent travel will now attract a minimum penalty of ₹500 in addition to the applicable fare. Travelling on another person's ticket will result in a similar fine and ticket forfeiture.

Men travelling in coaches reserved for women can be fined ₹2,500 and removed from the compartment. Smoking, unauthorised hawking, begging, public intoxication, nuisance, abusive behaviour, and defacement of public notices will also attract higher penalties.

Read more: SIP Calculator: How Investing ₹18,000 Per Month Can Grow to ₹3.42 Crore in 25 Years?

Conclusion

The latest reforms signal a tougher enforcement approach by Indian Railways as it prioritises passenger safety and operational security. With substantially higher fines and the possibility of imprisonment, the railways are sending a clear message that violations involving hazardous goods and public misconduct will no longer be treated lightly.

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