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Western Railway to impose Rs 500 fine for spitting, littering at stations

As part of its Pavitra initiative, the WR also conducts virtual inspections at random stations, apart from regular onsite inspections.

Western Railway imposes Rs 500 fine for spitting and littering on station premises to improve cleanliness. (File Photo)

The Western Railway (WR) Mumbai division will impose a maximum fine of Rs 500 for offenders caught spitting or littering on station premises. Previously, the fine was levied used to be generally Rs 200, said Vineet Abhishek, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of WR.

The the Railway Act allows fines ranging from Rs 100 to Rs 500, the CPRO said, adding the decision to impose Rs 500 fine is to raise awareness and discourage such behavior.

A similar move was taken in 2016 when fine was increased to Rs 500 from Rs 200. However, the decision was rolled back following pressure from passengers’ association.

Between April 2024 and January 2025, the WR reported 3,283 cases of spitting and littering, collecting Rs 6 lakh in penalty. Additionally, Rs 17.84 lakh was collected in penalties against housekeeping contractors for failing to meet cleanliness standards at stations.

The WR has appointed eight contractors, from Churchgate to Virar, at an annual cost of Rs 12.84 crore to maintain station cleanliness.

As part of its Pavitra initiative, the WR also conducts virtual inspections at random stations, apart from regular onsite inspections.

Rajiv Singhal, a regular WR commuter and member of the Zonal Railway Users Consultative Committee, said, “It is a positive step by the WR to impose higher penalties for spitting and littering, but they must also focus on ensuring cleanliness at stations. High footfall is a challenge but cleanliness efforts should be ramped up during non-peak hours. Penalising commuters alone won’t be enough.”

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