Is travelling on the footboard illegal?
Travelling on the footboard, between coaches or on the roof is an offence as well as the most common way passengers die.
What it costs
₹500
Railways Act, 1989, section 147.
The rule
Unauthorised entry into restricted areas of railway premises carries a fine of its own. This rule is enforced far less than it is broken, which is not a reason to rely on it.
Other rules at this stage
Your seat, your neighbours, and what the TTE can and cannot do.
Your berth is held for a while if you are late
If you miss your boarding station, your berth is not handed to a waitlisted passenger immediately.
The middle berth comes down at 10 PM
A middle berth may be kept open for sleeping only between 10 PM and 6 AM. Outside those hours it stays folded.
Lower berths go to those who need them
Lower berths are allotted automatically to senior citizens and to women travelling alone, where available.
Your allotted berth is yours
Nobody may occupy your reserved berth, including waitlisted or RAC passengers, unless the TTE has reallocated it.
Questions
Is travelling on the footboard illegal?
Travelling on the footboard, between coaches or on the roof is an offence as well as the most common way passengers die. Unauthorised entry into restricted areas of railway premises carries a fine of its own. This rule is enforced far less than it is broken, which is not a reason to rely on it.
What is the fine for this in 2026?
₹500.
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