Railway Rule Changes:- If you frequently travel by train, there is an important update for you. Indian Railways is set to enforce new guidelines strictly regarding mobile charging during nighttime hours. Power supply to charging points in Indian trains will now be completely switched off between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM. In light of recent incidents involving power banks exploding or overheating—which have led to fires—the Railway Board has issued strict directives to all Zonal Railways. The Railway Board has taken this measure with passenger safety in mind.
According to the new rules, the railway administration will cut off power to all charging sockets in train coaches between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM. The railway administration has implemented this step to prevent potential fire incidents and ensure a safe journey for passengers.
Why are charging points in trains being switched off?
This directive from the Railway Board follows an incident on a South Eastern Railway train, where a passenger’s power bank exploded while being charged, causing smoke to fill the area. According to the Board, the charging point in that specific train had not been switched off during the designated hours, which led to the power bank exploding and emitting smoke. Following this incident, the railways decided to further tighten safety protocols.
Adherence to strict 2014 guidelines
In its communication, the Railway Board referenced a directive issued on June 19, 2014. That earlier directive also mandated that mobile charging points in train coaches should remain switched off between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM.
What should passengers keep in mind?
Passengers travelling by train at night are advised to ensure that their mobile phones and other essential electronic devices are fully charged before their journey begins. Do not rely on the availability of charging points after 11 PM. If a power bank or mobile device becomes unusually hot or starts emitting smoke while charging, stop using it immediately and inform the train staff. It is essential for passengers to follow all safety-related instructions in such situations.