Railways to go airport mode: Luggage to be weighed at stations, fines for oversize bags soon
Indian Railways
is set to implement strict baggage regulations for train passengers, closely mirroring the practices followed in air travel, said a TOI report.
As per proposed rules, travellers will be required to pass their luggage through electronic weighing machines at key railway stations, with permissible weight limits strictly enforced. Those carrying baggage beyond the allowed limit or luggage that is too bulky despite being underweight will be subject to additional charges or penalties.
Indian Railways plans to roll out premium single-brand stores at revamped stations, offering products like clothing, footwear, electronics, and travel accessories. An official said the initiative aims to enhance passenger convenience, generate additional revenue, and give stations a modern, airport-style ambience.
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Baggage allowances differ by travel class—70 kg for AC First Class, 50 kg for AC Two Tier, 40 kg for AC Three Tier and Sleeper Class, and 35 kg for General Class. Oversized luggage that disrupts onboard space may incur penalties, even if within weight limits.
"The move is aimed at ensuring a more efficient and comfortable travel experience, especially for passengers on long-distance routes," said senior divisional commercial manager (DCM) Himanshu Shukla of the Prayagraj division of NCR.
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The initial rollout will cover major stations under the NCR zone, including
Prayagraj Junction
, Prayagraj Chheoki, Subedarganj, Kanpur Central, Mirzapur, Tundla, Aligarh Junction, Govindpuri and Etawah.
Passengers at these stations will only be allowed access to the platforms after their baggage has been weighed and cleared within the prescribed limits, said Shukla.
Prayagraj Junction is undergoing a massive redevelopment under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, with an investment of Rs 960 crore. The project is set to transform the station into a model rail hub, featuring a nine-storey structure equipped with world-class amenities. Facilities will include spacious waiting lounges, high-speed Wi-Fi, solar energy systems, rainwater harvesting, automated ticket vending machines and digital information displays.
From Dec 2026, access to the terminal area will be permitted only to passengers with a valid train ticket, which will function as a "boarding pass" — like airports. Non-travellers will need a platform ticket, which will now act as a "visitor pass".
Prayagraj Junction's transformation is especially significant considering the massive footfall expected during the upcoming Kumbh and Maha Kumbh festivals. To manage this efficiently, the station will follow a seven Core Service (CS) concept to streamline arrival and departure traffic. The new infrastructure will also be divyang-friendly, culturally integrated and designed as a green building powered by solar energy.
"Once completed, Prayagraj Junction is set to become a model for station redevelopment, with Kanpur and Gwalior among those expected to follow in its footsteps," said Shukla.
(With TOI inputs)
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