New Delhi: The Ministry of Railways denied reports circulated over the social media over the change in luggage policy. The Ministry refuted the claims made over the internet by some users that the Indian Railways have revised limitations on carrying luggage on the train and will be charging an extra amount if the baggage crosses the permissible limit set by the railway.
The Railways Ministry took to Twitter and issued a clarification which said, "News item covered on some social media/digital news platforms that the luggage policy of railways has recently been changed, is incorrect. It is hereby clarified that no change has been made in the recent past and the existing luggage policy is enforced for more than 10 years."
Several media reports circulated over social media claimed that the Indian Railways have changed their luggage policy and now users will be charged a hefty penalty for exceeding the permissible limit. The reports were published based on a tweet shared by the Ministry of Railways on May 29 which said, " “If the luggage is more than the enjoyment of the journey will be half! Do not travel by train carrying more luggage. In case of excess baggage, go to the parcel office and book the luggage".
This led to speculations that the Ministry is going to charge a high amount from passengers for carrying extra luggage similar to what several airlines follow. Many reports even released a list that mentioned how much amount a passenger will be charged for the luggage.
Claims made on social media about the new luggage policy by Railway Ministry
The reports said that as per the new rules, a passenger travelling in a sleeper class will be allowed to carry luggage up to 40 kg without having to pay extra. Likewise, a passenger travelling in second-class will be allowed to carry 35 kg of luggage, whereas those travelling in AC First Class, will be allowed to carry with them 70 kg of luggage.
All these limits can be increased by paying extra, just like the extra baggage charges by different airlines. Reports state that those found travelling with unbooked or excess luggage will be required to pay six times the baggage rate. For example, if anybody is travelling 500 km with excess baggage of 40 kg, they can book it in a luggage van by paying just INR 109. But, if they get caught with unbooked and excess luggage during the journey, they can attract a penalty of INR 654.
Railways Ministry denies claims
However, the rail ministry has denied all the speculations and said that there has been no change in the luggage policy and is the same for the last 10 years.