Penalty for trespassing on railway lines: a fine of 500,000 and two years imprisonment
Saudi Railways (SAR) issued a strong warning regarding encroachments and violations on railway property, emphasizing that such actions not only endanger lives but also subject perpetrators to strict legal penalties. The company clarified that regulations stipulate deterrent penalties, including a fine of up to 500,000 Saudi Riyals, imprisonment for up to two years, or both, in addition to obligating violators to compensate for any damage caused to public or private property as a result of the encroachment.
“Safer Lak” campaign to promote community awareness
As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance safety, SAR launched the first round of its 2025 field safety campaign last month under the slogan “Safer for You.” The campaign began in Al-Zulfi Governorate, building on the successes achieved by the initiative over the past three years. This is the sixth edition of the awareness campaigns, which directly aim to raise safety standards across the Kingdom’s railway network and instill safe railway practices in all segments of society.
The importance of railways in the national transport system
These warnings are particularly important given the transformative shift underway in Saudi Arabia's transportation sector, where the railway network serves as a vital artery connecting the Kingdom's north to its south and east to its west. This network plays a pivotal role in achieving the goals of Vision 2030 by enhancing logistics services and efficiently transporting passengers and minerals. With the significant expansion of train traffic and increased operational speeds, the safety and security of the railway lines become paramount to ensuring the uninterrupted flow of supply chains and passenger traffic.
Security and economic risks of violations
Trespassing on railway property, whether by cutting fences or crossing at unauthorized locations, is more than just an individual offense; it poses a direct threat to economic and social security. Modern trains, both passenger and freight, travel at high speeds and require long distances to come to a complete stop, making any human or physical obstruction on the track a potential disaster. Therefore, these stricter penalties reflect the commitment of the relevant authorities to protecting lives and property and ensuring a safe operating environment that contributes to the sustainability of rail transport services.
Through its “Safe for You” campaign, “SAR” continues to reinforce its awareness messages as one of the most prominent national field initiatives, calling on citizens and residents to abide by the regulations and report any violations that may threaten the safety of this vital facility.
