The Western Railway announced on Wednesday that passengers carrying luggage beyond the permissible limits will face penalties, an effort to ease congestion on station platforms following a recent stampede incident at Mumbai?s Bandra Terminus. The railway has urged travelers to avoid overcrowding and adhere to the baggage guidelines according to their travel class.
The new guidelines specify class-based free luggage allowances, beyond which passengers will be required to pay 1.5 times the standard luggage rate. Western Railway clarified the free allowances and maximum luggage limits for each class of travel:
| Class | Maximum Limit |
|---|---|
| 1st AC | 150 kgs |
| 1st AC-2 tier | 100 kgs |
| AC 3 tier/ AC Chair Car | 40 kgs |
| Sleeper Class | 80 kgs |
| Second Class | 70 kgs |
A statement from Western Railway emphasized that items exceeding dimensions of 100 cm x 100 cm x 70 cm, such as scooters and bicycles, do not qualify for the free allowance. Passengers are advised to pre-book and pay for any extra luggage within these limits to avoid penalties.
The move aims to reduce congestion on platforms and streamline passenger movement, following the recent incident at Bandra Terminus where 10 passengers were injured in a stampede while attempting to board the Gorakhpur-bound Antyodaya Express. Authorities highlighted that luggage stacked on platforms has been an obstacle to efficient passenger flow, contributing to overcrowding risks.
To address these issues, Western Railway has directed that parcels be kept off platforms until shortly before train departure, helping ensure safety and reduce congestion.
The new luggage policy took effect immediately and will remain active until November 8, with Western Railway urging passengers to plan accordingly and adhere to the guidelines.
