Indian Railways AC maintenance: New helpline numbers issued after Vande Bharat cooling failures
Indian Railways has increased its vigilance regarding the maintenance of air conditioning in trains. This decision comes after several reports of AC failure in Vande Bharat Express trains, particularly on the Lucknow route. The Railway Board has now introduced dedicated helpline numbers to ensure passengers get quick help during such technical glitches.
What are the official helpline numbers for passengers
Passengers can use the following numbers to report issues or seek help during their journey:
- 139: Integrated helpline for security, medical emergencies, PNR status, and coach maintenance.
- 138: Dedicated for customer complaints regarding cleanliness, food, and coach maintenance.
- 182: Direct helpline for assistance from the Railway Protection Force (RPF).
Recent AC failure incidents and railway actions
In April 2026, around 240 complaints were recorded regarding AC cooling failures in Vande Bharat and Tejas trains due to rising heat. A notable incident occurred on March 31, 2026, where passengers on the Saharanpur-Lucknow Vande Bharat Express faced extreme heat and mosquitoes. To prevent this, North Eastern Railway designated specific berths for AC coach incharges and assistants in 72 long-distance trains starting February 20, 2026.
Security and staff verification updates
Apart from technical maintenance, the Railway Board has tightened security protocols. Following an incident on November 12, 2025, police verification has been made mandatory for all on-board contractual staff. This includes AC coach attendants, OBHS staff, and linen distribution personnel to ensure passenger safety.