Watching videos or playing your favourite songs on a train journey could soon come with a price – if the volume disturbs fellow passengers. The railway has urged passengers to use earphones and respect others’ comfort. Southern Railway has issued fresh instructions to curb loud music played through mobile phone speakers on trains and at railway stations, with fines of up to Rs 1,000 for violations. Those who repeatedly cause a nuisance despite warnings could face up to six months in jail and a fine of Rs 5,000.
With mobile internet use growing, playing music, videos and other content through phone speakers on trains and at stations has emerged as an area of focus for authorities. However, playing music on a mobile phone will not automatically lead to imprisonment in every case. Action will depend on the circumstances and the applicable legal provisions. Passengers travelling on long-distance trains often face inconvenience from loud music, videos played on mobile phones and people speaking loudly on calls.
In a letter issued by its Chennai headquarters, Southern Railway said loud music and audio played through speakers on trains and at stations cause inconvenience to other passengers and affect their journey and rest. The official said the railway wants passengers to be mindful of those around them while using their phones.
