Extra charges for excess luggage on trains, rail minister tells Lok Sabha | Check class-wise limit
Passengers travelling by Indian Railways will have to pay extra charges for carrying luggage beyond the prescribed free limit, with the Union Railways Minister informing Parliament that baggage allowances vary by class and existing rules already regulate maximum permissible weight.
New Delhi: Railway passengers carrying more luggage than the permitted free allowance will be required to pay extra charges, the Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, bringing renewed attention to long-standing rules that are often overlooked by travellers.
Responding to a question from YSR Congress Party MP Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy, Vaishnaw clarified that Indian Railways already follows a structured baggage policy that varies according to the class of travel. The MP had sought to know whether the railways planned to introduce luggage rules similar to those enforced at airports, where excess baggage attracts additional fees.
Passengers allowed to carry personal belongings within free limit
In his written reply, the minister explained that passengers are allowed to carry personal belongings within a prescribed free limit while travelling by train. Any luggage exceeding this limit, but still within the maximum permissible weight, is allowed only on payment of additional charges. Carrying luggage beyond the maximum limit is not permitted under railway rules.
Vaishnaw stated that the rules are clearly defined for each travel class and are aimed at ensuring passenger safety, comfort and smooth movement within coaches. He also shared a detailed table outlining the free allowance and maximum permissible baggage limits across different categories.
Class wise allowance:
| Class of Travel | Free Luggage Allowance | Maximum Permissible Luggage (with charges) |
|---|---|---|
| Second Class | Up to 35 kg | Up to 70 kg |
| Sleeper Class | Up to 40 kg | Up to 80 kg |
| AC 3 Tier / Chair Car | Up to 40 kg | 40 kg (no excess allowed) |
| First Class / AC 2 Tier | Up to 50 kg | Up to 100 kg |
The highest allowance is extended to AC first class passengers, who can carry up to 70 kilograms of luggage free of cost. With payment, the maximum limit goes up to 150 kilograms.