Indian Railways enforces strict rules to ensure comfortable travel for millions of passengers daily, but not knowing the correct timing for using the middle berth often leads to arguments. Some want to sit at night, while others want to sleep. By fully understanding the railway rules, you can avoid these problems. Learn when the middle berth can be used on trains and what the railway’s special rules are for passenger convenience.
Stipulated Time for Using the Middle Berth
According to Indian Railways rules, sleeping time in reserved coaches is fixed from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am. This time applies equally to all passengers. Due to this fixed rule, passengers with middle berths can sleep by opening their seats between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am. If a passenger wishes to sleep on the middle berth after 10:00 pm, the passenger on the lower berth cannot stop them. This time is officially considered sleeping time, and all passengers must strictly adhere to this rule.
Opening the middle berth during the day is prohibited
According to railway rules, the middle berth must be kept closed after 6:00 am. This is primarily to ensure that passengers in lower berths have adequate seating space. The middle berth cannot be used for sleeping or sitting during the day. If a passenger opens the middle berth before 10 pm, the passenger in the lower berth can refuse and complain to the TTE.
Lower Berth Rules and Co-Passenger Convenience
The lower berth can be used both day and night, but from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am, the passenger in the middle berth has full rights to sleep. During the day, the passenger in the lower berth must yield seating space to passengers in the middle and upper berths. The Railways have enacted this rule to ensure equal access to all passengers and to ensure no one faces inconvenience. This rule strongly contributes to maintaining cooperation and harmony among passengers.
Other Important Railway Rules During Travel
There are some other important rules every passenger should be aware of during train travel:
Smoking and drinking alcohol are strictly prohibited on Indian Railways trains. Strict action can be taken if caught doing so.
Fighting, loud talking, or playing music on the train are also strictly prohibited, as this may disturb the sleep of other passengers.
According to railway rules, TTEs cannot check passengers’ tickets between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am, so that passengers can sleep peacefully. However, this rule does not apply to passengers who board the train after 10:00 pm.