Metro travel do’s & don’ts
Simple etiquette and safety tips for Indian metro travel. This is a general guide from Metro Safar — not official bylaws. Fines, banned items, and coach rules can differ by city.
Do’s
- Stand behind the yellow line on the platform until boarding.
- Let passengers get off before you board.
- Keep bags, saree/dupatta ends, and loose clothing clear of doors.
- Hold children’s hands near the platform edge and on escalators.
- Keep your token or smart card ready at entry and exit gates.
- Prefer a smart card where available — it is often cheaper than tokens.
- Follow station staff and security instructions.
- Use the emergency alarm or speak to staff if something is stuck in the doors or someone needs help.
- Move inside the coach so others can board; don’t block the doors.
- Keep your ticket or card until you exit — carrying a token past the exit can attract a fine.
Don’ts
- Don’t force doors open or hold them shut.
- Don’t board or alight after the door-closing alarm.
- Don’t push or rush at peak hour.
- Don’t play loud music or create a disturbance in coaches or stations.
- Don’t fight or argue with other passengers — call metro security if needed.
- Don’t smoke, drink alcohol, or carry prohibited items (exact list depends on the city operator).
- Don’t sit on the floor in walkways or block escalators and stairs.
- Don’t litter — use bins on the platform or concourse.
- Don’t take photos or videos where staff say it is restricted, especially in security areas.
- Don’t try to travel without a valid token or card — unpaid travel is fined.
Always follow notices at your station and confirm time-critical rules on the official metro app or website for that city. See our disclaimer.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do while boarding the metro?
Stand behind the yellow line, let passengers alight first, then board without blocking the doors. Keep bags and loose clothing clear of closing doors.
Can I carry luggage on the metro?
Small personal bags are generally fine. Large or commercial luggage rules vary by city — check your local metro operator before travelling with heavy bags.
Is a smart card cheaper than a token?
In many Indian metros, a smart card gives a discount versus a single-journey token. Exact savings depend on the city; use the card where available for daily travel.
What if I lose my token or cannot exit?
Speak to station staff at the customer care / excess fare counter. Do not jump the gate. Rules and penalties differ by operator.
Are metro rules the same in every Indian city?
Core etiquette is similar everywhere, but fines, prohibited items, and coach rules can differ. Always follow local station notices and the official operator app or website.