IRCTC Introduces Airport-Like Rules For Trains; Passengers To Pay Extra For Excess Luggage: Railway Minister

If you travel frequently by Indian Railways, this latest update is something you should pay close attention to. IRCTC has revised its luggage rules, making train travel stricter when it comes to how much baggage passengers can carry. The new norms are similar to airline baggage policies, where excess luggage means extra charges.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav informed the Lok Sabha that passengers carrying more luggage than the prescribed limit will now have to pay additional fees. The aim behind this move is to ensure passenger safety, reduce congestion inside coaches, and maintain comfort during journeys. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how the new luggage rules will affect train travellers.

Free luggage allowance by travel class

Indian Railways already had limits on how much luggage a passenger could carry, but these rules are now being enforced more strictly. Each class has a defined free baggage allowance:

• AC First Class: Up to 70 kg
• First Class: Up to 50 kg
• AC 3 Tier: Up to 40 kg
• Sleeper Class: Up to 40 kg
• Second Class: Up to 35 kg

Passengers can carry luggage within this limit inside their compartment without paying any extra charges.

Maximum luggage limit allowed in coaches

Even if you are willing to pay extra, there is a ceiling on how much luggage can be carried in the passenger coach. The maximum permissible limit varies by class:

• AC First Class: Up to 150 kg
• First Class: Up to 100 kg
• AC 3 Tier: Up to 40 kg
• Sleeper Class: Up to 80 kg
• Second Class: Up to 70 kg

Any luggage beyond this maximum limit will not be allowed in the compartment and must be booked separately.

How much will excess luggage cost?

Passengers travelling with luggage beyond the free allowance will be charged 1.5 times the standard luggage rate. This excess charge is applicable only up to the maximum weight limit fixed for that class. In simple terms, you can carry more than the free limit by paying extra, but only up to the allowed cap.

Size restrictions you must keep in mind

Weight is not the only factor. Indian Railways has also specified size limits for personal luggage. Trunks, suitcases, and boxes must not exceed 100 cm x 60 cm x 25 cm. Items larger than this will not be permitted inside the coach.

Oversized luggage must be booked in the brake van (SLR) or parcel van, as per railway rules. Carrying such items into the compartment can attract penalties.

What you cannot carry as personal luggage

Passengers are also advised to note that business or commercial goods are not allowed to be carried as personal luggage in train compartments. Such items must be booked separately through parcel services.

What this means for passengers

While train travel continues to be one of the most affordable and convenient modes of transport in India, luggage rules are no longer flexible. The new enforcement means passengers need to be more mindful of both the weight and size of their bags.

Before heading to the station, it is advisable to weigh your luggage and check its dimensions. Planning in advance can help you avoid last-minute fines, inconvenience, or being asked to book your bags separately.

Indian Railways is moving towards a more organised and disciplined travel system. For passengers, a little awareness and preparation can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.