New Delhi: In a move aimed at enhancing passenger safety and convenience, Indian Railways is set to introduce an airport-style baggage weighing system at select major stations. Just like air travel, passengers carrying luggage beyond the permissible limit will now have to pay extra charges.
The new system will first be rolled out across key stations in the Prayagraj division of North Central Railway, including Prayagraj Junction, Prayagraj Chheoki, Subedarganj, Kanpur Central, Mirzapur, Tundla, Aligarh Junction, Govindpuri, and Etawah. Electronic weighing machines are to be installed soon, and passengers will need to get their bags weighed before entering platforms.
Railways has clarified that both the weight and size of luggage will be checked. Oversized bags occupying extra space inside coaches may attract penalties, even if they are within the weight limit.
Permissible free luggage limits by class:
- First AC: 70 kg
- Second AC: 50 kg
- Third AC: 40 kg
- Sleeper Class: 40 kg
- General/Second Sitting: 35 kg
Passengers can carry up to 10 kg extra without booking, but anything beyond that must be booked separately at the luggage counter.
Penalty clause: If passengers are caught with baggage exceeding the booking limit, they will be charged a fine amounting to 1.5 times the standard luggage rate, making excess baggage costly if not declared in advance.
According to officials, the measure is meant to reduce overcrowding and improve comfort, as excessive luggage often causes inconvenience to co-passengers and safety hazards. The Railways believes this system will particularly help manage rush during festive seasons and peak travel months.