Bengaluru: Transport services provider Namma Metro has fined commuters for loud music, videos or social media reels on speakers in metro trains or station premises. It is an action that comes after passengers have been complaining about loud music and using mobile phones without headphones.
The new enforcement is to make metro travel safe, comfortable, and peaceful for the lakhs of commuters who rely on Namma Metro every day. Public transport is a communal environment to travel in, the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) said.
In recent years, smartphones and short video platforms have led to a rise in passengers watching videos, listening to music or calling through loudspeaker mode while travelling. We know from commuters that they can be very rude and it's very common at peak times when metro coaches are full.
Metro authorities say that the fine will help to improve passenger discipline and encourage good use of public transport facilities. The metro authorities said commuters can use their mobile phones without intrusion of other passengers’ devices but not play audio loud or produce excessive noise, they said.
Apart from loud music and videos, metro authorities have reminded users of the rules and regulations, the metro authorities reminded people that cleanliness, prohibited items, smoking, vandalism and disorderly behaviour are still in place. This new measure complements these rules and also focuses on noise pollution in trains and stations.
Passenger associations have largely welcomed the move, saying that excessive mobile phone noise has become a growing nuisance during daily commutes. Many regular travelers believe the fine will encourage greater awareness and improve the overall travel experience, particularly for students, senior citizens, office-goers and families who depend on the metro.
Many metro systems in the world have similar rules that prohibit loud music, speakerphone conversations and disruptive behaviour. Public transportation systems are most effective when commuters follow the basic rules of etiquette such as keeping noise levels low, offering seats to those in need, letting passengers alight before they board, and maintaining cleanliness.
That is why commuters are told to use earphones or headphones to listen to music or watch videos and to keep conversations short and speak softly to avoid disturbing others. BMRCL officials have advised commuters to use earphones or headphones.
BMRCL officials will also be able to raise awareness by announcing the new rule on trains and stations, by way of digital displays and through public information campaigns. Metro personnel and authorized personnel can also monitor compliance and take appropriate measures against violations in accordance with applicable regulations.
The introduction of the fine is also indicative of the greater focus on improving commuter service as Namma Metro is expanding its service in Bengaluru. The metro service of the city is now used by thousands of people in daily metro service to work, study and leisure; and with this increasing number of people using metro services for work, education and leisure there is a need for discipline and less noise.
The metro system has witnessed great growth in recent years with new corridors and extensions improving the connection between different parts of the city. As ridership increases, we think it is important to have passenger cooperation so that everything is smooth and travel is enjoyable.
Commuters are also advised to follow other safety precautions and guidelines such as standing behind platform safety lines, avoiding obstruction of train doors, not carrying prohibited items, and reporting suspicious activities or unattended baggage immediately to metro staff.
Public transport experts think healthy behavior in public transportation promotes comfort and respect in shared public space. Noise pollution is often overlooked and, especially for long commutes, has a major impact on daily commuting.
The ₹2,500 penalty sends a clear message that public convenience is more important than individual behavior that disrupts fellow commuters. Although the rule would need to change for regular smartphone users, authorities hope it can lead to a quieter, more comfortable, and commuter-friendly metro system.
With Bengaluru's metro network expanding faster than ever, officials are calling on the public to comply with the new recommendations and be respectful of personal audio devices and the shared nature of public transportation. The overall commuting experience will improve, while promoting civic responsibility in Namma Metro.
