Indian Railways Enforces Night-Time Charging Ban to Improve Passenger Safety

Indian Railways has reportedly instructed all zonal railway offices to strictly implement the existing rule requiring charging points in train coaches to remain switched off between 11 PM and 5 AM. The measure is intended to reduce the risk of fires caused by mobile phones, laptops and power banks being charged overnight. According to the report, the decision follows an incident in which a passenger's power bank reportedly exploded on a train under the South Eastern Railway zone, causing smoke to spread. The incident has renewed concerns about the enforcement of onboard safety procedures.

The overnight charging restriction is not new. It was introduced in 2014 following recommendations made after a major fire involving the Hazur Sahib Nanded–KSR Bengaluru Express in 2013. The latest reported directions call for better staff training, closer supervision and surprise inspections by officials to ensure compliance. Overnight charging may also create concerns about theft when passengers are asleep. Travellers should follow instructions from railway staff and use charging facilities only when permitted. Passengers are advised to check official Indian Railways announcements for confirmation of the latest enforcement instructions.