The Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has issued a new guideline for commuters, urging them to utilize earphones while enjoying music or videos within the metro trains and at station areas. Passengers who fail to comply with this regulation could incur fines reaching up to Rs 2,500. This initiative is intended to enhance the overall passenger experience by minimizing noise pollution and disturbances within the metro environment.
In a statement, CMRL emphasized, “We kindly ask all passengers to use headphones and refrain from using speaker mode or engaging in loud conversations on metro premises to ensure the comfort of fellow travelers.”
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) published a Gazette notification on June 19, 2026, which outlined amendments under the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026, effectively updating the penalty structure under Section 59.
Section 59 of the Metro Railways (Operations and Maintenance) Act, 2002, classifies any behavior that causes annoyance or discomfort to other passengers as a punishable offense. This includes activities such as making loud phone calls, playing music or videos without using headphones, and employing speaker mode inside metro facilities.
According to the CMRL, “As detailed in the MoHUA Gazette notification dated June 19, 2026, the fine for causing a disturbance, such as listening to music without headphones, has been raised from the previous amount of Rs 500 to a maximum of Rs 2,500. Offenders may also face removal from metro premises by authorized personnel.”
Last month, CMRL initiated a passenger awareness campaign aimed at promoting safe and disciplined travel while enhancing the overall commuter experience. The campaign focused on several key practices to ensure a pleasant journey for all.
Anish Mondal is a seasoned journalist with over nine years of experience covering transportation sectors, including railways and roadways. Currently part of the editorial team at Indianexpress.com, Anish specializes in reporting on impactful sectors.
Career Overview: Anish launched his career at Rajya Sabha Television (now Sansad TV), where he gained valuable insights into legislative processes and governance. In 2018, he shifted to digital financial journalism at FinancialExpress.com, where he honed his skills in market analysis and corporate reporting for nearly six years. Prior to joining The Indian Express in 2025, he played a significant role at ETNowNews.com.
Educational Background: Anish’s journalistic endeavors are supported by a strong academic foundation in communication and humanities:
- Master of Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC) – Apeejay Stya University
- Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Production (PGTVRJP) – Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication
- Bachelor of Arts (English Honours) – University of Calcutta
Coverage Areas: Anish provides in-depth reporting on the expansion of the Indian Railways and National Highway networks.
