The Unwanted Soundtrack of Public Travel
In an age where everyone carries an entertainment device in their pocket, the shared quiet of a train compartment is often shattered. From viral Reels and movie scenes to loud phone conversations, the noise pollution from personal devices has become a significant
source of frustration for many passengers. It disrupts sleep, makes it difficult to read or converse, and transforms a potentially peaceful journey into a stressful ordeal. The expectation of public courtesy seems to fade, leaving fellow travellers feeling helpless and irritated by the constant, uninvited background noise.
What the Rulebook Says About Noise
Many passengers who endure this nuisance are unaware that Indian Railways has specific rules to prevent it. This isn't just about bad manners; it's about passenger rights. According to recent directives, activities that cause inconvenience to other passengers are prohibited. This explicitly includes playing music or videos loudly without earphones. Southern Railway recently reiterated these rules, highlighting Section 145 of the Railways Act. This provision addresses acts of nuisance and interference with passenger comfort. The message from the authorities is clear: a train is a shared space, and one person's entertainment should not come at the expense of another's peace. These rules apply not only inside the train but also on railway premises like platforms and waiting halls.
Penalties for Disruptive Behaviour
To enforce a peaceful travel environment, Indian Railways has put penalties in place. Under the amended Section 145 of the Railways Act, creating a nuisance can lead to a fine of up to ₹1,000 and removal from the train. The consequences can be more severe for those who persist with the disruptive behaviour after being warned by an authorized railway employee. In such cases, the penalty can escalate to imprisonment for up to six months, a fine of up to ₹5,000, or both. This strict stance underscores the seriousness with which the railways are treating the issue, aiming to deter passengers from causing disturbances.
Your Action Plan for a Quieter Journey
If you find yourself next to a disruptive passenger, you don't have to suffer in silence. There is a clear protocol to follow. The first step is often a polite, direct request to the person to lower the volume or use earphones. Many times, the individual may simply be unaware of the disturbance they are causing. If that fails or you feel uncomfortable confronting them, the next step is to approach the Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE), coach attendant, or any Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel on board. They are authorized to intervene. For a more formal and documented approach, passengers are encouraged to use the Rail Madad portal or mobile app. You can file a complaint in real-time by providing your PNR number and a brief description of the issue. Complaints can also be lodged by calling the helpline number 139. These complaints are logged, assigned to relevant officials, and you can even track the status of the resolution.
