New Delhi: The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has introduced new restrictions to curb the rising trend of passengers turning its trains and stations into makeshift studios for social media content. The initiative, which came into force on September 14, spans the entire network and is set to be rigorously enforced in the coming days.
Commuters now hear a fresh bilingual announcement, in both Hindi and English, reminding them that recording reels, dance performances, or lip-sync videos inside metro premises is strictly prohibited. The message is delivered alongside the long-standing reminders against eating or sitting on the floor of coaches.
Offenders can be penalised under Metro Railways Act
While the Metro Railways Act of 2002 does not directly reference content creation, officials have confirmed that those caught filming can face penalties under provisions related to nuisance or disruptive behaviour. Fines may be imposed on offenders, with the corporation emphasising that the policy is designed to protect the convenience and comfort of daily travellers.
Complimenting with the ban, DMRC has also launched a social media drive urging passengers to avoid playing loud music on their phones while travelling. Together, the measures mark a wider campaign to ensure journeys remain safe and pleasant for the millions who depend on the network each day.
Earlier efforts to curb such activities
Over the years, metro trains have repeatedly featured in viral videos, ranging from elaborate dance routines to lifestyle clips, many of which have drawn sharp criticism for inconveniencing fellow commuters. Despite earlier efforts in 2023, when special flying squads were tasked with monitoring such activities, reels and other clips continued to flood social media platforms, highlighting the difficulty of regulating behaviour in an era where content creation has become a cultural mainstay.
By reinforcing restrictions through audio announcements and digital campaigns, the DMRC is adopting a firmer stance. The corporation hopes the measures will discourage disruptive filming and strike a balance between the creative pursuits of passengers and the smooth running of one of the busiest metro systems in the world.