To address this issue, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has recently declared that passengers engaging in such activities on metro trains and station premises will incur a substantial fine under a new amendment to the Metro Railways Act.
In an effort to enhance the commuter experience, reduce noise pollution, and create a more pleasant travel atmosphere, Chennai Metro announced that those who violate this rule could face a penalty of up to ₹2,500.
“CMRL urges all passengers to use headphones, refrain from speaker mode, and limit loud conversations in metro areas to ensure the comfort of their fellow travelers,” the statement read.
Metro Passengers, Attention!
Playing music on a speaker, watching videos aloud, or causing loud disturbances may result in a fine of up to ₹2,500.
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???? Let’s keep Chennai Metro comfortable for everyone.#ChennaiMetro #CMRL… pic.twitter.com/lPFFpjEgKz— Chennai Metro Rail (@cmrlofficial) July 11, 2026
Increased Penalty Amount
This update comes after amendments issued by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in a Gazette notification on June 19, 2026. The changes introduced through the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026, significantly raise the fines for causing nuisance or discomfort to other passengers, as outlined in Section 59 of the Metro Railways (Operations and Maintenance) Act, 2002.
Passengers who use mobile phones in ways that create excessive noise, like loud conversations or playing music and videos without headphones, now face an increased fine from the previous ₹500 to as much as ₹2,500. Offenders may also be asked to leave metro premises by authorized officials.
According to CMRL, this new fine structure applies to individuals who cause disturbances, which includes playing music or videos without headphones, using loudspeakers on mobile phones, or generating excessive noise that disrupts other commuters.
“As stated in the MoHUA Gazette notification dated 19.06.2026, the fine in Section 59 for creating a nuisance (such as listening to music without a headset) has been raised from ₹500 to a maximum of ₹2,500, with the possibility of removal from metro premises by authorized personnel,” CMRL mentioned.
CMRL’s Awareness Campaign for Passengers
Recently, Chennai Metro Rail Limited initiated a passenger awareness campaign aimed at improving the overall commuter experience and promoting safe and responsible travel. The campaign highlighted several important practices:
- Allow passengers to disembark before boarding.
- Ensure train doors remain clear and unobstructed.
- Refrain from crossing the yellow line while awaiting on the platform.
- Adhere to the “Stand Left, Walk Right” rule when using escalators.
- Utilize headphones for personal audio and video enjoyment.
