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The Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has introduced a new rule asking passengers to use earphones or headphones while listening to music or watching videos inside metro trains and station premises. Passengers who play audio on the loudspeaker or create noise can now face a fine of up to Rs 2,500. The rule aims to make metro travel more comfortable by reducing noise and preventing inconvenience to other commuters.
Chennai Metro Rail Limited's Advisory for Passengers
CMRL has advised passengers to avoid using speaker mode and keep conversations at a reasonable volume while travelling. The metro authority said using headphones is a simple way to respect fellow passengers and maintain a peaceful atmosphere inside trains and stations.
The revised penalty comes after a Gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) on June 19, 2026. The notification followed amendments made under the Jan Vishwas Act, 2026, which increased the penalty under Section 59 of the Metro Railways (Operations and Maintenance) Act, 2002.
Chennai Metro's New Rules
According to Section 59, any activity that causes inconvenience or disturbance to other passengers is considered an offence, including speaking loudly on mobile phones, playing music or videos without headphones, and using phones in speaker mode inside metro trains or station areas.
CMRL said the penalty for such violations has been increased from Rs 500 to up to Rs 2,500. In addition to imposing fines, authorised officials can also remove passengers from metro premises if they do not follow the rules.
Chennai Metro Conducted an Awareness Campaign
Recently, CMRL conducted a passenger awareness campaign to promote safe and disciplined travel. The campaign encouraged commuters to allow passengers to exit before boarding, avoid blocking train doors, stand behind the yellow line on platforms, and follow the "Stand Left, Walk Right" rule while using escalators.
Passengers were also reminded to use headphones for personal entertainment to ensure a quieter and more comfortable journey for everyone. CMRL said these measures are aimed at improving the overall travel experience and creating a safe, respectful, and pleasant environment for all metro users.