Indian Railways New Penalty Rules 2026: Minimum Rs 10,000 Fine for Carrying Prohibited Items on Trains
Indian Railways has significantly tightened its rules regarding the transportation of prohibited and hazardous items on trains, introducing steeper penalties in a bid to strengthen passenger safety and prevent accidents.
The revised provisions form part of the Centre’s broader efforts to make train journeys safer and more secure for millions of passengers across the country.
The changes were notified through a gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Railways on June 19.
The notification stated that, in exercise of the powers conferred under sub-section (2) of Section 1 of the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026, the provisions relating to Serial Number 52 of the Railways Act, 1989, would come into effect from the date of publication.
Stricter Penalties for Carrying Prohibited Goods
Under Sections 67, 154, 164 and 165 of the Railways Act, 1989, carrying inflammable, explosive or otherwise prohibited articles on trains is a punishable offence.
Earlier, violators could face imprisonment of up to three years, a fine of up to Rs 1,000, or both.
They were also liable to compensate for any loss, injury or damage resulting from their actions.
The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026, has now considerably increased the financial penalty.
Under the amended Section 165, any person found carrying or entrusting offensive or prohibited goods for transport on the railway network will be liable to pay a penalty that cannot be less than Rs 10,000.
In addition, the individual will be required to compensate the Railways for any loss, damage or injury caused by the prohibited items.
The amended provisions also empower railway authorities to remove such goods from railway premises.
If the person responsible refuses to remove the items or fails to pay the prescribed penalty despite a formal demand, an authorized railway official may approach the competent court to recover the amount.
Upon being satisfied that the penalty is payable, the court may order its recovery. In case of non-payment, the offender may face imprisonment for a term of up to one year, a fine of not less than Rs 10,000, or both.
List of Prohibited Items on Indian Railways
Railway authorities have repeatedly warned passengers against carrying inflammable and dangerous materials in trains, noting that such items have been responsible for several fire incidents in passenger coaches.
According to the Railways, commonly prohibited items include gas cylinders, kerosene, petrol, stoves, fireworks and other explosive or inflammable substances.
The Railways has also highlighted that seemingly ordinary items such as matchboxes and smoking materials can contribute to fire hazards when used irresponsibly inside trains.
The stricter rules are intended to deter passengers from carrying dangerous goods and to minimize the risk of accidents that could endanger hundreds of lives.
With the introduction of these tougher penalties, Indian Railways has sent a clear message that passenger safety remains a top priority and that violations involving prohibited items will now attract far more serious consequences than before.
