New Delhi: Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw has informed that Indian Railways has prescribed class-wise limits for carrying luggage inside passenger compartments, along with specific free allowance norms.

As per the guidelines, the maximum permissible luggage limits (including free allowance) are 150 kg for AC First Class, 100 kg for First Class and AC 2 Tier, 40 kg for AC 3 Tier and AC Chair Car, 80 kg for Sleeper Class, and 70 kg for Second Class. The corresponding free allowances are 70 kg for AC First Class, 50 kg for First Class and AC 2 Tier, 40 kg for AC 3 Tier/Chair Car, 40 kg for Sleeper Class, and 35 kg for Second Class.

Passengers may carry luggage beyond the free allowance but within the maximum prescribed limit by paying charges at 1.5 times the applicable luggage rate.

Trunks, suitcases and boxes with maximum dimensions of 100 cm x 60 cm x 25 cm are permitted as personal luggage inside compartments. Items exceeding these dimensions must be booked and carried in the brake van (SLR) or parcel van.

The Railways have clarified that merchandised items are not permitted as personal luggage in passenger compartments. Excess luggage beyond the prescribed limits is carried in brake vans, subject to the maximum booking limits.

On security and law-and-order arrangements, the minister stated that police and public order fall under the jurisdiction of state governments, which are responsible for crime prevention and investigation on railways through the Government Railway Police (GRP) and District Police. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) supplements these efforts by providing security to passengers and passenger areas.

To enhance safety, Indian Railways has implemented several preventive measures, including random manual bag checks by RPF personnel using hand-held metal detectors, installation of door frame metal detectors at station entry and exit points, and joint checks with other agencies to prevent the carriage of prohibited items. Passenger movement is monitored through CCTV surveillance, while dog squads are deployed periodically at station entry and exit points and parcel offices for intensive checks.

Additionally, announcements and visual displays are used to educate passengers about prohibited items and encourage them to report any unattended luggage to the RPF or GRP. The Railways said close coordination with GRP and local police is maintained to prevent any untoward incidents.