World · India Bureau
Kerala Railways Doubles Ticketless Travel Fines Ahead of Onam Season
Indian Railways has increased the minimum penalty for travelling without a valid ticket from ₹250 to ₹500, effective June 2026. The move aims to curb fare evasion during the busy festive travel period in Kerala.
LSN India ·
Railway authorities in Kerala have intensified enforcement measures to combat ticketless travel as the region braces for heavy passenger traffic during the Onam festival season. The newly revised penalty structure, set to take effect from June 2026, represents a significant deterrent against fare dodging on the state's railway network.
Under the enhanced framework, the minimum fine for passengers found travelling without a valid ticket has been doubled from ₹250 to ₹500. Officials stated that the stricter penalties are designed to encourage ticket compliance and reduce revenue losses from unauthorised travel.
The timing of the penalty revision coincides with the anticipated surge in railway bookings as families prepare for Onam festivities. Kerala's railways typically witness elevated passenger volumes during the festival period, prompting the authorities to strengthen ticket verification checks across stations and train services.
Railway staff have been directed to conduct more frequent inspections to identify ticketless passengers and ensure the new fine structure is uniformly applied. The crackdown is expected to improve revenue collection while promoting orderly passenger conduct on the network.