Andy Burnham has launched a nationwide crackdown on "headphone dodgers," warning that passengers who blast music or videos from their phones on public transport can face fines up to £100. The measures were announced on Monday, 19 October, as part of a wider government push against anti-social behaviour on buses and trains, targeting loud music, littering, vaping, drinking and threatening behaviour.

The campaign carries the slogan "share the carriage, not the noise." Burnham said: "We've all been on the train when someone starts blasting music or videos from their phone. It gets on your nerves and can quickly spoil the journey.

So, we're launching a nationwide campaign reminding passengers to use headphones on trains. It's a simple thing, but one that will make journeys that little bit better for all of us."

Under the new restrictions issued to local authorities, transport safety officers and police - excluding bus drivers - will enforce the rules and issue fines of up to £100. Train operators already hold powers to issue fines of up to 1,000 pounds for antisocial behaviour.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said it was "so frustrating when the actions of an inconsiderate few spoil journeys for the rest of us." The initiative has received backing from major passenger groups and transport unions, who have long campaigned for better passenger environments and stronger enforcement mechanisms to protect commuters from disruptive behaviour.

Commuters across major metropolitan areas have frequently complained about the rise of unmuted phone usage, video calls, and gaming audio on crowded morning and evening services. Transport authorities hope the visible presence of safety officers will serve as a strong deterrent.

While enforcement will primarily rely on transit police and authorized security personnel, officials have stressed that public cooperation remains vital. The campaign will feature prominent signage across station platforms, carriages, and bus stops.

Critics, however, have questioned how consistently the fines will be applied across different regional networks, given varying staffing levels among local transport operators and municipal police forces. Despite these logistical challenges, the Department for Transport remains optimistic that the clear financial penalties will prompt a cultural shift in how passengers treat shared public spaces during their daily commutes.