The railways have launched an extensive crackdown on overcharging in the Danapur division, carrying out 95 decoy inspections over the past 10 days at catering stalls, parking areas, pay-and-use toilets, and pantry cars following repeated passenger complaints.
Decoy Inspections Uncover Overcharging
Danapur senior divisional commercial manager Abhinav Siddarth said commercial staff conducted surprise inspections by posing as ordinary passengers to identify vendors and service operators charging above prescribed rates. During the drive, several instances of overcharging were detected, and strict penalties were imposed on violators, Siddarth added.
Passenger Complaints Trigger Action
The campaign was initiated after passengers complained that some vendors at stations and onboard trains were charging more than the maximum retail price (MRP) and approved railway rates for food items, parking services, and toilet facilities. Siddarth emphasized that the objective of the drive was to ensure transparency and protect passengers from unfair practices.
Strict action will continue against anyone found overcharging commuters within railway premises or onboard trains, Siddarth said. He also appealed to passengers to prefer digital payments and ensure they pay only the MRP or officially notified charges. According to him, digital transactions help improve transparency and reduce the possibility of overcharging.
Passengers Urged to Report Irregularities
Siddarth urged passengers to immediately report complaints related to overcharging or any other irregularities to railway authorities so prompt action could be taken. Railway officials said the checking drive would continue across the division to improve passenger services and ensure accountability among vendors and service providers operating within railway premises.
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About the Author
Kumod Verma, a senior journalist with The Times of India, Patna edition, has been writing since 1986, bringing over three decades of dedicated reporting experience. He has extensively covered the Indian Railways, higher education, defence, particularly the Indian Army, and rail-related crimes. Beyond these core beats, he has also reported on key issues related to social developments and reforms. Whether unpacking a railway budget, examining university reforms, or profiling soldiers on the frontline, remains his main focus of news reporting.
