In response, the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has unveiled a policy stating that those engaging in such behaviors within metro trains and station areas will incur a substantial fine under a recent amendment to the Metro Railways Act.
As part of its initiative to enhance commuter experience, reduce noise pollution, and provide a more pleasant travel environment, Chennai Metro has declared that passengers who violate this regulation could face fines of up to ₹2,500.
“CMRL urges all passengers to use headphones; refrain from loud conversations and speaker mode in metro areas to ensure the comfort of fellow travelers,” the statement read.
Attention Metro Passengers!
Playing music through speakers, watching videos aloud, or causing loud disruptions may result in a fine of up to ₹2,500.
???? Use headphones.
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???? Let’s keep Chennai Metro enjoyable for all.#ChennaiMetro #CMRL… pic.twitter.com/lPFFpjEgKz— Chennai Metro Rail (@cmrlofficial) July 11, 2026
Increased Fine Amount
This change comes after amendments released by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) via a Gazette notification dated June 19, 2026. With the updated guidelines introduced through the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026, the penalty for causing disturbance or discomfort to other passengers under Section 59 of the Metro Railways (Operations and Maintenance) Act, 2002 has been significantly increased.
The fine for passengers creating excessive noise through mobile phone usage, such as loud conversations or using speaker mode to play music and videos within metro trains and stations, has risen from ₹500 to a maximum of ₹2,500. Offenders may also be expelled from metro premises by authorized personnel.
In a statement, CMRL noted that the updated penalty impacts passengers who create disturbances, including listening to music or videos without headphones and utilizing loudspeaking functions on mobile devices.
“As stated in the MoHUA Gazette notification dated 19.06.2026, the penalty under Section 59 for causing a nuisance (like listening to music without headphones) has been elevated from ₹500 to up to ₹2,500, with the possibility of removal from metro premises by authorized personnel,” CMRL added.
CMRL’s Awareness Campaign for Passengers
Last month, the Chennai Metro Rail Limited initiated a passenger awareness campaign designed to enhance the overall commuting experience and encourage safe and orderly travel. The campaign highlighted several important practices:
- Allow passengers to exit before boarding.
- Keep train doors clear and unobstructed.
- Avoid crossing the yellow line while waiting on the platform.
- Follow the “Stand Left, Walk Right” guideline when using escalators.
- Use headphones for personal audio and video entertainment.
