Over 50 Plastic Drums Seized From WR Passengers At Various Stations In Crackdown On Oversized Luggage

The Western Railway (WR) has confiscated more than 50 plastic drums from passengers across various stations in Mumbai.

Following a disturbing stampede-like incident at Bandra terminus recently, the railways have initiated a crackdown on oversized unbooked luggage.

The incident highlighted the chaos caused by overcrowding and violations of luggage regulations. It aims to create a safer and more organized environment, reducing the risk of incidents and streamlining the boarding process for general coach passengers.

A senior officer of WR, emphasized the importance of adhering to free luggage allowances, which vary by travel class. Passengers in AC First Class are allowed up to 70 kg of free luggage, while AC 2-Tier and First Class passengers can bring 50 kg. In AC 3-Tier, AC chair car, and non-AC sleeper class, the allowance is 40 kg, and Second Class travelers may carry 35 kg. Any excess will incur charges starting at Rs 30.

The railway also clarified that larger items, including scooters and bicycles, do not qualify under the free allowance. Items exceeding dimensions of 100 cm x 100 cm x 70 cm will face penalties.

To further manage station crowding and enhance passenger safety, Western Railway has temporarily suspended the sale of platform tickets at select major stations until November 8, 2024.

Later, WR introduced a new holding area to better manage crowds of unreserved ticket passengers, a move aimed at easing platform congestion.

According to officials, it has been set up in a 240-square-meter former parking zone just beyond the terminus porch. The holding area was made operational immediately and can accommodate around 500 people.

This space provides a secure waiting area away from the platforms, allowing passengers to wait comfortably without creating congestion on the platform itself.

The new system will be enforced by the Railway Protection Force (RPF), which will ensure that only passengers with tickets are allowed onto the platform when their train is due to arrive. This arrangement aims to prevent early seating on platforms and curb overcrowding.