Indian Railways Mandates Overnight Charging Point Shutdown
Indian Railways mandates switching off charging points from 11 PM to 5 AM to prevent fire hazards from power banks and overheating devices.
In a major move to enhance passenger safety and curb the rising threat of electrical fires, Indian Railways has mandated an overnight charging point shutdown across its coaches. To prevent accidents caused by overheating electronics, all zonal railways are now required to switch off mobile and laptop charging points between 11 PM and 5 AM.
The Incident That Triggered the Move
This directive comes in the wake of a frightening safety incident on October 25, 2026, when a power bank exploded in an AC coach of the Mumbai Mail near Chakradharpur. Similar fire-related concerns were also reported in a non-AC coach, highlighting the significant risks posed by power banks and low-quality electronic devices while passengers are asleep.
In response to these escalating concerns, the South Eastern Railway's Principal Chief Safety Officer issued specific instructions on October 24, 2026, calling for strict adherence to existing safety protocols. To ensure these measures are effectively implemented, the South Eastern Railway has launched a dedicated 15-day safety campaign, which is scheduled to run until November 8, 2026.
Strict Enforcement and Staff Responsibility
The responsibility for maintaining this safety protocol lies with several categories of railway personnel. To ensure every coach complies with the overnight shutdown, the following staff members have been tasked with the duty:
- Escorting Staff: Responsible for monitoring coach safety during transit.
- AC Mechanics: Tasked with ensuring the electrical systems and charging points are deactivated during the designated hours.
To prevent any lapse in duty, officials and supervisors have been directed to conduct surprise inspections. The administration has taken a hardline stance on compliance, stating:
The administration has warned that strict disciplinary action will be taken against any railway staff found negligent in enforcing these safety guidelines.
Potential Ban on Power Banks
Beyond the nightly shutdown, the Railway Board is focusing on broader preventative measures. This includes improving staff training and increasing public awareness regarding the dangers of using low-quality chargers and uncertified devices.
Furthermore, following the recent series of fire incidents, officials from the Railway Ministry are reportedly in discussions regarding a potential ban on carrying power banks on trains. Such a move would bring railway safety regulations in line with the strict restrictions currently enforced in the aviation industry.