Next time you use a porter's services at any of the Delhi stations, Northern Railways will make sure that you are not over-charged for having your luggage shifted.

Licensed porters at New Delhi, Old Delhi, Hazrat Nizamuddin and Delhi Sarai Rohila will now have to carry identity cards bearing the name on top left and the batch number on top right. Additionally, a rate list will be printed on the card. The rates have been fixed according to the weight of luggage.

Shalendra Sharma, senior divisional commercial manager (Delhi division), says, a passenger can check the list before paying the coolie. If the coolie asks for more then the person can make a complaint giving the details of the coolie such as name and batch number. The complaint can be made to the station manager or the senior divisional commercial manager. Complaints can also be made by SMS. Action will be taken within 24 hours. The first complaint against a porter will earn him a supension for 15 days. Repeated offences will lead to a permanent cancellation of the license.

The cards for more than 2,500 coolies at the stations will be distributed by Friday. 

The first-of-its kind initiative in Delhi division of the Northern Railways is expected to bring down the cases of porters' overcharging passengers.