Indian Railways luggage rules: Just like airlines, Indian Railways is set to impose stricter rules on passengers carrying excess baggage beyond the prescribed limit. The North Central Railway (NCR) has announced that electronic luggage weighing machines will soon be installed at major railway stations, including Prayagraj Junction, to monitor passengers’ luggage weight.
According to officials, passengers carrying more than the permissible luggage weight without advance booking will now have to pay a hefty penalty along with the extra luggage charge. Until now, the railway authorities had been lenient in implementing these rules, but with the new initiative, passengers will have to strictly follow luggage regulations.
Permissible Luggage Limit by Travel Class
The Indian Railways has defined specific weight limits for different classes:
- AC First Class: 70 kg
- AC 2-Tier: 50 kg
- AC 3-Tier: 40 kg
- Sleeper Class: 40 kg
- General Class: 35 kg
If a passenger exceeds these limits, they are required to book the extra luggage in advance. Failure to do so will attract a penalty of up to six times the standard luggage booking charge.
Stations Where Weighing Machines Will Be Installed
To ensure proper implementation, electronic luggage weighing machines will be installed at the entry and exit points of several key railway stations under the Prayagraj division. These include:
- Prayagraj Junction
- Prayagraj Chheoki
- Mirzapur
- Kanpur Central
- Subedarganj
- Govindpuri
- Etawah
- Tundla
- Aligarh Junction
Passengers will be required to weigh their luggage before entering the platform.
Oversized Bags Will Also Attract Penalties
Interestingly, the rule will not only apply to overweight luggage but also to oversized baggage. Even if the weight is within the permissible limit, luggage that occupies extra space inside the coach can still attract fines.
Senior DCM of Prayagraj Division, Himanshu Shukla, stated that discussions are underway to finalize the system. Once implemented, this will ensure smoother travel, fair use of space, and better discipline in train compartments.
Why This Move Matters
- Brings discipline: Just like airlines, this will prevent overcrowding of luggage inside train coaches.
- Improves safety: Excess luggage often causes inconvenience and even safety risks during boarding and deboarding.
- Fair for all passengers: Ensures equal space and comfort for travelers.
With the introduction of luggage weighing machines, Indian Railways aims to bring airline-like discipline to train travel. Passengers are advised to check their luggage weight before arriving at the station to avoid unnecessary penalties and ensure a smooth journey.