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Economic Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Economic Times
Railways to go airport mode: Luggage to be weighed at stations, fines for oversize bags soon
Synopsis Indian Railways will enforce strict baggage rules, requiring passengers to weigh luggage at select stations, with excess weight or bulky items incurring penalties. Baggage limits will vary by class. Redeveloped stations like Prayagraj Junction will feature premium retail outlets and airport-like amenities. From Dec 2026, only ticketed passengers may access terminal areas, mirroring air travel protocols. PTI The 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 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 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. 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 at these stations will only be allowed access to the platforms after their baggage has been weighed and cleared within the prescribed limits, said 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 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)
Time of India
3 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Railways to go the airport way; regulate baggage weight, size
Prayagraj: The Indian Railways is set to implement strict baggage regulations for train passengers, closely mirroring the practices followed in air travel. 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. The Indian Railways is also introducing premium single-brand outlets at redeveloped stations. These outlets, selling apparel, footwear, electronics, travel gear and more, are expected to boost both passenger convenience and railway revenue while lending stations a more contemporary, airport-like feel, said an official. The permissible baggage limits vary by class in trains as AC First Class passengers are allowed up to 70 kg, AC Two Tier up to 50 kg while AC Three Tier and Sleeper Class are permitted 40 kg. General Class travellers will be restricted to 35 kg. Oversized bags that obstruct onboard space may also attract penalties, regardless of their weight. "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. 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. Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area.
