Indian Railways excess baggage rule: PSU does U-turn on penalising passengers
Indian Railways came out with a proposal to enforce a three-decade-old rule to penalise passengers for carrying excess baggage, but has now shelved the plan, stating it was only to generate awareness among travellers.
Already facing flak from different quarters on day-today basis due to its poor maintenance, delay of trains and on-board security, Indian Railways' move to penalise passengers for carrying excess baggage has recoiled on it, compelling authorities to say that it was only to create awareness among passengers.
Indian Railways came out with a proposal to enforce a three-decade-old rule to penalise passengers for carrying excess baggage, but has now shelved the plan, stating it was only to generate awareness among travellers.
Earlier, it had launched a six-day drive from June 1 to check for excess baggage but the decision to strictly enforce the rule to fine passengers up to six times the stipulated luggage weight was vehemently criticised. A large number people taking to social media to denounced the Railway's move.
Buckling under public pressure, it seems Railways decided to withdraw the move, as railway ministry spokesperson Rajesh Bajpayee, stated that the drive was merely to make people aware of how carrying excess luggage causes inconvenience to other travellers.
"It was felt that in the heavy summer rush, passengers carrying excess luggage cause much inconvenience to fellow passengers. Hence, a special education-cum-awareness drive was launched," the ministry spokesperson said, adding the drive was meant to inform passengers about the provisions regarding free baggage allowance, the maximum luggage that can be carried and other provisions.
According to the prescribed norms, a sleeper class and a second class passenger can carry luggage weighing 40 kg and 35 kg respectively without paying any extra money. However, passengers can carry a maximum of 80 kg and 70 kg respectively by paying for the excess luggage at the parcel office. The excess luggage is supposed to be put in the luggage van, as per norms.
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In AC first class, passenger can carry 70 kg of luggage for free and a maximum of 150 kg after paying a fee for the excess 80 kg, while an AC two-tier passenger can travel with 50 kg of luggage for free and another 50 kg by paying a fee.
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