Indian Railways Issues Fresh Warning on Overnight Phone Charging

Indian Railways has reiterated its safety instructions requiring charging points in train coaches to remain switched off between 11 PM and 5 AM. According to the report, the Railway Board issued a directive on October 26, asking officials across all railway zones to enforce the rule strictly. The renewed focus follows a reported incident in which a power bank being charged inside a Mumbai local train exploded, causing thick smoke to spread through a coach. The incident has once again raised concerns about the risks associated with charging electronic devices during train journeys.

The overnight charging restriction has reportedly been in place since June 19, 2014, following a fire incident on an express train travelling from Bengaluru to Hazur Sahib Nanded and subsequent safety recommendations. Railway officials have been instructed to educate onboard staff about the rule, conduct surprise inspections and verify that charging points are switched off at the designated time. Passengers travelling overnight are advised to charge their phones and essential electronic devices before boarding and to follow railway safety instructions. The measure is intended to reduce potential fire hazards and improve passenger safety.