Crores of travelers undertake the train journey in India every day, relying on the vast network operated by Indian Railways. To ensure safe and hassle-free travel, the railway system has in place some passenger rules—primarily regarding baggage. The majority of travelers remain unaware of the fact that Indian Railways also has a no-nonsense baggage weight rule based on the class of travel. Most often, this lack of awareness causes confusion, penalties, and travel inconveniences. Below is a close look at what baggage you can carry, where it can be checked, and the penalty.
Where and How Indian Railways Check Baggage
Indian Railways does not weigh everyone’s baggage as a norm. However, checking can occur at main stations, particularly where there are baggage scanners or near parcel offices.
Train Ticket Examiners (TTEs) and baggage inspectors can also stop and search bags that are seen to be too large or too heavy. During security checks, railway personnel can also spot big items such as TVs, bulky bags, or containers full of things for weighing or for questioning.
Free Luggage Permitted by Class of Travel
Indian Railways allows different free luggage allowances for travel classes. The below are the normal allowances:
General Class – Up to 35 kg
Sleeper Class – up to 40 kg
Third AC – Up to 40 kg
Second AC – Up to 50 kg
First AC – Up to 70 kg
Free of charge, the passengers can carry luggage within the permissible limit. But those carrying excess have to declare and book the excess luggage in advance at the parcel office.
Penalties for Carrying Extra Luggage
If a passenger carries more luggage than permitted but does not reserve, the passenger can be fined on the spot. TTEs and inspectors conduct such fines, which differ according to the excess weight as well as distance of the travel.
To avoid being fined or held up on journey, travelers need to declare extra luggage beforehand and present proof of reservation. Indian Railways urges the passengers to follow such regulations to be able to provide safety, comfort, and punctuality on its congested routes.
