Loud phone calls on trains may cost you Rs 1,000, Railway warns passengers
New Delhi: Loud phone conversations or playing music on speaker mode during a long train journey could land passengers in trouble. Southern Railway has directed its divisions to raise awareness about noise inside trains and railway premises, warning that those causing a nuisance could face a fine of up to Rs 1,000 and imprisonment of up to six months under the applicable provisions of the Railways Act.
The move aims to make train journeys more comfortable for passengers, particularly those travelling long distances. The railway zone has asked passengers to keep their conversations at a reasonable volume and use earphones while listening to music or watching videos on their phones.
Southern Railway issues instructions to divisions
In a communication dated October 6, 2026, Southern Railway’s headquarters in Chennai instructed its divisions to educate passengers about the inconvenience caused by loud conversations and audio or video playback on speaker mode.
The railway zone has suggested public announcements in English, Hindi and regional languages. Notices will also be displayed at railway premises to inform passengers about the rules and encourage considerate behaviour.
According to the communication, competent commercial staff, including personnel at the rank of Ticket Examiner or above, may impose a penalty of Rs 1,000 under the applicable provisions. The instructions have been sent to the Chennai, Palakkad, Thiruvananthapuram, Tiruchchirappalli, Madurai and Salem divisions.
Railway Board had raised issue earlier
The latest instructions refer to a Railway Board letter dated July 23, 2012, which addressed complaints about loud mobile phone conversations, lengthy calls and objectionable ringtones inside train coaches, particularly air-conditioned compartments.
At the time, railway authorities were advised to educate passengers about the impact of such behaviour on others. Recommendations included keeping phones on silent or vibration mode, using low-volume ringtones and avoiding loud conversations.
Southern Railway has noted that the growing use of mobile internet has made playing videos and other content through phone speakers increasingly common in public spaces.
What does Section 145 of Railways Act say?
The communication cites Section 145(2)(a), as amended by the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026. The provision deals with nuisance, indecent acts, abusive or obscene language and wilful interference with railway amenities that affect passengers’ comfort.
The law also provides for removal from railway premises in applicable cases and further punishment if a person continues the nuisance despite being directed to stop.
Southern Railway has asked the divisions to take the necessary steps and submit an implementation report to headquarters by October 20, 2026.
For passengers, the message is simple: keep phone calls quiet, avoid playing content on speaker mode and use earphones to ensure a more comfortable journey for everyone.