Overview

• A Paris metro passenger was fined €150 for carrying a 1.3-meter plant, deemed incommodating under RATP regulations.
• RATP rules prohibit large or inconvenient items but allow packages that do not disturb other passengers, sparking debate over the fine's justification.
• Fare evasion penalties in the metro are €50, making the plant-related fine significantly higher and raising questions about enforcement consistency.
• Fare evasion in Île-de-France costs €700 million annually, with an 8% overall evasion rate and 26% on RATP-operated trams.
• Ticket controllers earn a 10% commission on on-the-spot fines, fueling concerns about financial incentives driving strict enforcement of minor infractions.