Udupi: Konkan Railway carried out extensive and continuous ticket-checking operations throughout 2025, collecting fines and unpaid fares amounting to ₹20.27 crore, according to an official statement released by the railway authorities. The intensified enforcement drive was aimed at curbing ticketless and irregular travel and ensuring greater discipline among passengers along the Konkan Railway route.
Railway officials said the year-long exercise involved thousands of special inspections across stations and onboard trains, covering the entire stretch of the Konkan Railway network. The checks resulted in the detection of a large number of passengers travelling without valid tickets or with improper travel documents.
Nearly 1,000 special checks in December alone
In December 2025, Konkan Railway conducted 998 special ticket-checking inspections, reflecting a significant push to tighten enforcement towards the end of the year. During these inspections, 43,896 unauthorised or irregular passengers were identified.
Fines and unpaid fares totalling ₹2.45 crore were collected from these passengers in December alone, officials said. The railway described this as one of the most intensive single-month enforcement efforts in recent years.
“These checks are conducted not only at stations but also on running trains, ensuring that passengers comply with ticketing rules at every stage of their journey,” the statement said.
Over 8,400 drives conducted during the year
From January to December 2025, Konkan Railway carried out a total of 8,481 ticket-checking drives across its operational network. These drives led to the detection of 3,68,901 cases of unauthorised or irregular travel.
Officials said the figure includes passengers travelling without tickets, with expired or incorrect tickets, and those misusing concessional travel facilities. The cumulative fines and recovered fares from these cases amounted to ₹20.27 crore for the year.
The railway noted that the scale of operations reflected a sustained and systematic approach rather than sporadic enforcement.
Focus on discipline and revenue protection
Railway authorities said the primary objective of the intensified ticket-checking campaign was to discourage ticketless travel and promote a culture of compliance among passengers. Ticketless and irregular travel not only results in revenue loss but also affects overall passenger safety and service quality, officials said.
“Ensuring that every passenger travels with a valid ticket is essential for maintaining order and fairness. It also helps in better planning and management of train services,” a senior Konkan Railway official said.
Revenue generated through fines and unpaid fare recovery, officials added, would contribute to operational costs and infrastructure maintenance along the route.
Konkan route sees heavy passenger movement
The Konkan Railway route, which connects Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka, is known for its high passenger density, especially during festive seasons, holidays, and peak travel months. With a mix of long-distance travellers, daily commuters, and tourists, the railway often faces challenges in controlling ticketless travel.
Officials said that increased passenger volumes during peak periods often lead to attempts at unauthorised travel, making regular inspections necessary. The special drives were conducted by ticket-checking staff deployed strategically across major stations, smaller halts, and onboard trains.
Use of data and targeted checks
According to the railway, ticket-checking operations in 2025 were carried out using data-driven planning. Stations and train services with a higher incidence of irregular travel were identified, and targeted inspections were conducted in those areas.
“This approach helped us deploy our staff more effectively and maximise the impact of the checks,” the official statement noted.
The railway also said that surprise inspections played a key role in deterring habitual offenders, as passengers could not predict when and where checks would be conducted.
Passenger awareness and compliance
Alongside enforcement, Konkan Railway said it has been working to raise awareness among passengers about the importance of purchasing valid tickets before travel. Announcements at stations, onboard reminders, and digital communication channels have been used to inform passengers about penalties for ticketless travel.
Officials urged passengers to make use of authorised ticket booking channels, including reservation counters, mobile applications, and online platforms, to avoid inconvenience and penalties.
“Travelling with a valid ticket ensures a smooth journey for everyone and helps the railway maintain quality services,” the statement said.
Continued checks planned in 2026
Konkan Railway has indicated that similar ticket-checking drives will continue in 2026 as part of its regular enforcement strategy. Officials said maintaining discipline among passengers remains a priority, particularly as travel demand continues to grow.
The railway also plans to review staffing patterns and inspection methods to further improve efficiency and coverage.
Conclusion
With fines totalling ₹20.27 crore collected through more than 8,400 ticket-checking drives in 2025, Konkan Railway’s enforcement efforts underline a strong commitment to curbing ticketless travel and safeguarding revenue. Authorities believe that sustained checks, combined with passenger awareness initiatives, will help promote responsible travel behaviour and improve the overall experience on the Konkan Railway network.