While the state government has not put any restrictions on local train travel yet, the railways has stepped up their drive to ensure people follow COVID-appropriate rules. They are not only taking action against those not wearing masks, but also physically verifying vaccine certificates.

“We are in constant touch with the state government and local authorities, and have stepped up the drive to enforce COVID-appropriate behaviour. However, there is no change in the guidelines for local trains,” a railway spokesperson said. Railway officials said that in addition to fining ticketless travellers, the state government had permitted the railways to fine those violating pandemic rules. Accordingly, a Rs 500 fine is being imposed for not following Disaster Management Authority guidelines and COVID-appropriate behaviour.