The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has introduced a fresh advisory prohibiting passengers from filming reels, dance videos, and other similar social media content inside trains and station premises. Starting September 14, 2025, bilingual announcements are being broadcast across the network to remind commuters of the restrictions. The move, DMRC says, is aimed at ensuring passenger convenience and safety in one of the world’s busiest metro systems.
What The Advisory Says
According to the DMRC’s announcement:
- Delhi metro users must refrain from making reels, recording dance clips, or shooting staged videos inside trains and stations.
- Such activities, if found disruptive, may attract penalties under the Metro Railways (Operation & Maintenance) Act, 2002.
- The rule applies across all metro lines and stations, covering both trains and concourse areas.
Why The Ban Was Introduced
DMRC has cited two primary reasons for the restriction:
- Avoiding inconvenience to commuters: Filming reels and dance videos often causes crowding, blocks passageways, and disturbs passenger movement.
- Ensuring safety: Certain videos involve stunts, props, or obstructing train doors, which can endanger both the performer and fellow commuters.
Officials noted that the advisory is an extension of earlier efforts, as the metro had previously discouraged such practices through posters and social media campaigns.
Legal Backing
- The Metro Railways (O&M) Act, 2002 empowers metro authorities to act against passengers creating nuisance or obstruction inside trains and stations.
- While the Act does not specifically mention “reels” or social media content, DMRC has clarified that such activities fall under nuisance if they disrupt operations or inconvenience passengers.
- Penalties can include fines or removal from the premises, though DMRC has not issued a fixed fine schedule specifically for reel-making.
How Enforcement Works
- Announcements: Audio messages in Hindi and English are now played across trains and stations to remind passengers of the rule.
- On-ground monitoring: Security staff and station personnel are tasked with discouraging and stopping reel-making activities.
- Action against offenders: Passengers engaged in disruptive filming may face penalties or be asked to leave the premises.
Public Response
- Commuter support: Many daily passengers have welcomed the step, saying it will help prevent nuisance and ensure smoother travel during rush hours.
- Content creator criticism: Some social media users have expressed disappointment, calling the ban restrictive. They argue that DMRC should differentiate between harmless filming and disruptive video shoots.
Context From Other Metro Systems
Restrictions on filming are not unique to Delhi. Many metro systems in India and abroad allow professional or commercial shoots only with prior permission, while discouraging or banning casual, disruptive video-making inside stations and trains. DMRC’s move aligns with these practices by prioritising passenger safety and convenience.
Summing Up
The DMRC’s ban on reels and dance videos marks a clear stance against disruptive social media content inside metro premises. Backed by the Metro Railways Act, the advisory reinforces that public transport is primarily meant for safe and efficient commuting. While professional shoots with formal permission may still be possible, casual reel-making inside Delhi Metro trains and stations is now officially off-limits.
