Representative file image.
The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has collected ₹1.17 crore as fine for over-luggage in the last five years.
With work on the much-anticipated airport line underway, commuters are worried about shelling out extra money for carrying their heavy bags in the metro.
In the last five years, the highest amount in heavy luggage fines, over ₹36.7 lakh, was collected in 2022.
While a little over ₹36 lakh was collected in 2018, it went up to over ₹29 lakh in 2019. Even though it went down further during the years of lockdown, it went up again in 2022.
It is noteworthy that the metro stations from where maximum fines have been collected are all located near bus and railway stations. While Yeshwanthpur station holds the top position, it is followed by Chickpete, Kempegowda, Baiyappanahalli and Yelachenahalli.
BMRCL officials said baggage restrictions are in place to ensure safe and comfortable travel for all passengers. “The fine has been in existence for years now and the amount is ₹30. If the dimensions of the luggage are larger than the scanner at our operating stations, a fine is imposed,” explained an official.
Recently, in a debate on social media about baggage fines, many supported the move, while others were concerned about how it would create apprehension among people who would like to use public transport .
“In today’s times, there is encouragement from every corner to use public transport. The penalty for excess baggage discourages us from doing so as it is quite natural to have large bags or suitcases after a long journey. While we are excited about the upcoming airport line, if such restrictions are in place, many commuters may have to pay fines and hence think twice before taking the metro,” said Madhukar, an IT employee from Banashankari. K. said.
Officials said appropriate steps would be taken to meet the needs of airport passengers till the line is operational. “Airports also have their own restrictions when it comes to luggage. Keeping those rules in mind, we will have rules that will benefit passengers,” said Yashwant Chavan, spokesperson, BMRCL.