Every day, crores of people travel by train across India, often carrying heavy bags, boxes, and suitcases. Over time, excess luggage has become a major challenge, blocking aisles, reducing seating space, and creating safety risks. To address this, Indian Railways is now enforcing class‑wise luggage limits more strictly. Passengers will still get a free allowance, but anything beyond that will require payment similar to airline baggage rules.
Free Luggage Allowance by Class
Indian Railways has clearly defined how much luggage each passenger can carry for free. The limits are:
- AC First Class – 70 kg
- AC 2‑Tier – 50 kg
- AC 3‑Tier – 40 kg
- Sleeper Class – 40 kg
- Second Class – 35 kg
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Passengers can carry more than the free limit, but only after paying additional charges. Each class also has a maximum permissible limit, beyond which luggage must be booked separately in the brake van.
Why These Rules Matter
Railway officials say that enforcing these limits will:
- Reduce overcrowding inside coaches
- Prevent safety hazards caused by oversized bags
- Ensure smoother movement inside compartments
- Improve passenger comfort during long journeys
Many travellers unknowingly carry far more than the allowed limit, causing inconvenience to others. In some cases, luggage blocks emergency exits or walkways, creating serious risks.
How Excess Luggage Will Be Handled
If a passenger carries more than the free allowance:
- They must pay extra charges at the luggage booking counter
- Oversized items must be booked in the brake van
- Unbooked excess luggage may lead to penalties during ticket checking
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently confirmed in Parliament that these rules already exist and will now be implemented more strictly across major stations.
A Step Toward Safer, Cleaner Travel
With stricter enforcement, Indian Railways hopes to create a more organised and comfortable travel experience. Passengers are encouraged to pack smartly, follow the weight limits, and avoid carrying unnecessary items. As the new enforcement begins, travellers can expect a more disciplined and safer journey.
