The Indian Railways has stepped up action against unauthorised drone operations over railway tracks, stations and other railway facilities, warning that such activities can pose risks to infrastructure and public safety. The crackdown follows a court ruling in Kollam, Kerala, where a man was fined and sentenced to one day of community service for illegally flying a drone over the Kappil-Edava railway line. The development could affect vloggers and rail enthusiasts who use drones to film trains, bridges, tunnels and scenic railway routes for social media. The railway court in Kollam highlighted the potential risks posed by unauthorised drone operations to railway infrastructure, electrical installations and public safety. The case has brought renewed attention to the rules governing the use of drones over railway property.
Following amendments to provisions under the Jan Vishwas Act this year, the Railways has reiterated the need to comply with applicable regulations and obtain the necessary permissions before undertaking drone operations in railway areas.
Southern Railway has urged the public to avoid unauthorised entry onto railway tracks, bridges and restricted areas for photography, videography or drone operations.
In a statement, the zone said drone filming involving railway property must be undertaken only after obtaining permission from the competent authorities.
Vande Bharat videos and railway reels could face closer scrutiny
The crackdown could affect vloggers and rail enthusiasts who regularly use drones to capture trains, including Vande Bharat services, as well as railway bridges, tunnels and scenic routes. Such videos and photographs often attract considerable interest on social media, particularly among rail enthusiasts.
However, filming railway property without the required authorisation can raise safety and security concerns. Drone operations near railway tracks and electrical installations may pose risks to both railway operations and the people involved in filming.
Those planning to shoot drone footage of trains or railway infrastructure should therefore check the applicable rules and obtain the necessary permissions before proceeding.
Can you take photos and videos at railway stations?
Photography and videography on railway premises are subject to applicable railway rules and restrictions. While passengers frequently use mobile phones to capture pictures and videos at stations or on trains, drone operations involve additional safety and regulatory considerations.
The Railways has also taken action in cases involving people filming social media reels in dangerous situations on trains. Such incidents include filming activities that put individuals at risk and unauthorised entry into restricted areas, including the locomotive cabin of a Vande Bharat train.
Inputs from TOI