No Charging After 11 PM: New Indian Railways Safety Rule
Indian Railways prohibits mobile and laptop charging between 11 PM and 5 AM to prevent fire risks following a recent power bank explosion.
The Railway Board has issued a strict mandate prohibiting the use of mobile and laptop charging points inside train coaches during the night. To prevent fire hazards and electronic overheating, all charging points in Sleeper, 3AC, 2AC, and 1AC coaches must be switched off daily between 11 PM and 5 AM.
Why the Sudden Crackdown?
This renewed enforcement comes in the wake of a dangerous incident on October 24, 2026, where a power bank exploded on a South Eastern Railway train. Officials attributed the mishap to the failure of onboard staff to disconnect the power supply during the designated overnight hours.
While a similar safety policy was originally established on June 19, 2014, following a 2013 fire incident in an AC coach, the recent explosion has forced the authorities to tighten enforcement to ensure passenger safety while they sleep. The new directive, issued to all zonal railways on October 26, 2026, leaves no room for exceptions.
Strict Monitoring and Surprise Inspections
To ensure that this rule is followed without fail, the Railway Board has ordered a multi-layered enforcement strategy across all zones:
- RPF Oversight: The Railway Protection Force (RPF), along with various railway officers and supervisors, has been instructed to conduct surprise inspections.
- Staff Training: Members of the Electrical Department and other railway staff are undergoing mandatory training and counseling to ensure the regulation is implemented effectively.
- Mandatory Daily Shutdowns: It is now compulsory for staff to ensure all charging points are disconnected during the specified nighttime window.
Advice for Passengers
To avoid any inconvenience during your journey, passengers are strongly advised to fully charge their mobile phones and electronic devices before commencing their night travel. This precaution is vital to prevent potential fire risks caused by overheating or faulty electronic equipment during the night.