Indian Railways Plans Night-Time Restrictions on Train Charging Points for Safety

Indian Railways has decided to introduce time restrictions on the use of mobile phone and laptop charging points in train coaches as part of efforts to improve passenger safety. According to a report published on October 28, 2026, the power supply to charging points is to be switched off between 11 PM and 5 AM.

Charging points are provided in various types of train coaches to allow passengers to charge their mobile phones, laptops and other electronic devices during their journeys.

Power Banks Explosion Raises Safety Concerns

The proposed restriction follows an incident reported on a train operated by the South Eastern Railway zone. A passenger reportedly left a power bank connected to a charging point while sleeping. The device subsequently exploded and produced smoke. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident.

The incident has raised concerns about the risks associated with charging electronic devices unattended during train journeys, particularly overnight.

Railway Board Issues Instructions

Following the incident, the Mechanical Engineering Directorate of the Railway Board reportedly issued a circular to all railway zones, instructing them to disconnect the power supply to charging points in train coaches between 11 PM and 5 AM.

The measure is intended to reduce potential fire hazards linked to charging electronic devices while passengers are asleep.

Passengers Raise Concerns Over the Restriction

The proposed measure has also raised concerns among passengers who depend on charging points during long-distance journeys. Some passengers may find it difficult to keep their phones and other devices charged if the power supply is unavailable overnight.

There have been calls for the Railway Board to reconsider the instruction while balancing passenger convenience with safety requirements.

Passengers travelling by train should check the latest official railway announcements for confirmation of the implementation and applicable rules.