10.32% Increase in Ticket Examination Penalties in Eastern Railway's Howrah Division

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 8, 2024, Howrah : The Commercial Department of Eastern Railway's Howrah Division has recently achieved notable success in its intensified ticket-checking drive. The drive has resulted in identifying approximately 72,790 cases of ticketless travel and irregular tickets in the month of August 2024. This enforcement effort led to the collection of fines totaling around Rs 1.9 crore, marking a 10.32% increase in ticket examination penalties compared to the same period last year.

The Eastern Railway's Howrah Division has been actively pursuing measures to curb ticketless travel and ensure revenue protection. The recent increase in penalties reflects the division's commitment to strict enforcement and vigilance. The railway authorities have been conducting intensive checks to detect and penalize passengers traveling without valid tickets or with irregular tickets. The increased vigilance is part of a broader effort to promote ethical travel behavior and ensure the financial health of the railway system.

In a statement, the Eastern Railway encouraged passengers to utilize various convenient ticketing options to avoid such penalties. These options include purchasing tickets online through the IRCTC website, using Automated Ticket Vending Machines (ATVM), and the UTS mobile app. Additionally, tickets can be bought at traditional ticket counters. For a seamless and smooth transaction experience, passengers are also encouraged to use the QR code payment mode, which simplifies the process and reduces the need for cash transactions.

The Chief Public Relations Officer of Eastern Railway emphasized the consequences of traveling without a valid ticket. "Travelling without a ticket not only incurs huge fines but also tarnishes one's image in society," he stated, urging all passengers to make use of the multiple ticketing options available to avoid fines and ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

He also appealed to passengers to play an active role in promoting responsible travel by encouraging fellow passengers to purchase valid tickets. "We request every railway passenger to spread the word and encourage others to buy tickets," he added, highlighting the collective responsibility of passengers in maintaining the integrity of the railway system.

Eastern Railway’s robust ticket-checking campaign, coupled with its efforts to provide diverse and accessible ticketing options, is aimed at reducing ticketless travel and enhancing the overall experience for passengers. With the 10.32% increase in penalties collected, the railway division is reinforcing its stance on ensuring compliance and fostering a culture of lawful and responsible travel across the network.