The Chennai division of Southern Railway has reported a notable reduction in the number of ticketless passengers during the 2023-24 fiscal year. According to recent data, the number of passengers caught traveling without tickets fell by 2,84,258, totaling 5,11,863 cases compared to previous years.
In the 2021-22 fiscal year, Southern Railway officials apprehended 6,53,449 ticketless passengers, resulting in fines amounting to ₹32.03 crore. The following year, 2022-23, saw an increase in both the number of offenders and the fines collected, with 7,96,121 passengers fined a total of ₹37.87 crore. However, in 2023-24, there was a significant drop in both the number of cases and the fines collected, with 5,11,863 passengers being fined ₹29.04 crore.
As of August 15, 2024, 2,51,574 passengers were fined ₹10.53 crore for traveling without tickets, indicating a continued downward trend.
Divisional Railway Manager B. Vishwanath Eerya attributed this decline to several key measures implemented by the Southern Railway. The installation of additional automatic ticket vending machines (ATVMs) across the division has made it easier for passengers to purchase tickets, reducing the likelihood of ticketless travel. Additionally, the widespread adoption of the UTS mobile app, which allows passengers to book tickets conveniently on their smartphones, has further contributed to the decrease.
Moreover, the intensified ticket-checking drives conducted by railway authorities have acted as a strong deterrent against ticketless travel. These rigorous checks have been crucial in ensuring that passengers comply with ticketing regulations.
Ticketless passengers are fined based on the distance traveled, with a minimum fine of ₹500. Under Section 137 of the Railways Act, passengers who refuse to pay the fine may face legal consequences, including imprisonment of up to six months or an additional fine of up to ₹1,000. These stringent penalties are part of the efforts to enforce compliance and maintain order within the railway system.
The significant reduction in ticketless travel within the Chennai division reflects the effectiveness of Southern Railway’s strategies in addressing this long-standing issue. With continued investment in technology and enforcement, the railway authorities aim to further reduce the incidence of ticketless travel, ensuring a more efficient and law-abiding transit system for all passengers.
As the 2023-24 fiscal year progresses, Southern Railway is expected to maintain its focus on promoting ticket compliance, enhancing passenger convenience, and ensuring the smooth operation of the rail network.