The Delhi Metro is a lifeline for millions in the national capital region. It’s fast, efficient, and reliable. But to ensure a safe and pleasant journey for everyone, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has a set of rules and regulations that every passenger must follow.
Whether you’re a daily commuter or a first-time visitor, knowing these Delhi Metro rules is crucial to avoid penalties and contribute to a smooth travel experience. This comprehensive guide breaks down exactly what you can and cannot do on the Delhi Metro.
Why Following Delhi Metro Rules is Important
The rules aren’t just for show. They are designed for:
- Passenger Safety: Preventing accidents on platforms and inside trains.
- Comfort & Hygiene: Ensuring a clean and pleasant environment for all.
- Operational Efficiency: Keeping the massive network running on time.
What You CAN Do on the Delhi Metro
Understanding your rights and allowances makes the journey easier.
- Carry Luggage (Within Limits): You can carry luggage, but it must not exceed 70 cm x 45 cm x 25 cm in size and 15 kg in weight. Larger items are not permitted.
- Use Electronic Devices: You can use mobile phones, laptops, and tablets. However, use headphones for audio and keep the volume low to not disturb fellow passengers.
- Travel with Children: Children below 90 cm in height travel for free. It’s advisable to use the lifts and hold their hands on escalators and platforms.
- Buy a Tourist Card: If you’re a tourist, you can purchase a Tourist Card for unlimited travel over a specific number of days, which is highly cost-effective.
- Use Facilities for Differently-Abled: The metro is well-equipped with ramps, lifts, dedicated seating, and tactile paths for the visually impaired.
What You CANNOT Do on the Delhi Metro (The Prohibited List)
This is the most critical section. Violating these rules can lead to heavy fines.
1. No Eating or Drinking
This is one of the most strictly enforced rules. Consuming food or drink of any kind is prohibited in the paid area—this includes stations, platforms, and inside trains. This rule helps maintain cleanliness and prevents pest infestations.
2. No Smoking or Intoxicants
Smoking, chewing tobacco, gutka, or consuming any other intoxicating substance is strictly banned across the entire metro premises.
3. No Prohibited Items
For security reasons, you cannot carry the following items:
- Explosives & Flammable Substances: Firecrackers, gasoline, paint thinners.
- Weapons: Firearms, sharp objects like knives, scissors (above a certain blade length).
- Corrosive Materials: Acids, chemicals, etc.
- Alcohol: Carrying or consuming alcohol is not allowed.
4. No Photography & Videography
Photography and videography are strictly prohibited inside the stations and on trains without official permission from the DMRC. This is a crucial security measure.
5. Behavior and Etiquette Rules
- No Footboarding: Do not try to board or alight from a moving train. Stand behind the yellow line on the platform.
- No Misuse of Emergency Equipment: Do not tamper with emergency alarms, door handles, or fire extinguishers unless there is a genuine emergency.
- No Littering: Use the dustbins provided. Spitting is a punishable offense.
- No Annoying Behavior: Creating loud noise, playing music without headphones, or behaving in a way that causes annoyance to other passengers is not allowed.
- No Sitting on the Floor: Do not sit on the floor of the station or the train, as it obstructs movement.
Penalties for Breaking the Rules
The DMRC imposes on-the-spot fines for violations. For example:
- Smoking or consuming alcohol: Fine up to ₹200.
- Spitting or littering: Fine up to ₹200.
- Carrying prohibited items: Fine and potential legal action.
Top 5 Delhi Metro Travel Tips for a Smooth Ride
- Get a Smart Card: Avoid long ticket queues by purchasing a rechargeable smart card. It’s faster and offers a 10% discount on every ride.
- Stand on the Right: When using escalators, always stand on the right side to allow people in a hurry to walk past on the left.
- Let Passengers Alight First: When the train arrives, always wait for passengers to get off before you board.
- Be Aware of the Women’s Coach: The first coach of every train is reserved for women. It is marked clearly on the platform.
- Download the Official App: The “Delhi Metro Rail” app provides real-time updates, route planning, and station information.
Conclusion
The Delhi Metro is a world-class system, and maintaining its standards is a shared responsibility. By following these Delhi Metro rules and regulations, you not only avoid penalties but also ensure your own safety and contribute to a better commuting experience for millions.
Happy and Safe Travelling!
(Note: Rules and fines are subject to change by the DMRC. Please refer to official DMRC sources for the most current information.)
