If you are boarding an overnight train and planning to plug your phone in while you sleep, rethink that plan. Indian Railways is strictly enforcing a long-standing safety rule that switches off mobile
charging points for a few hours.
Indian Railways has directed its zones to strictly enforce the rule that onboard mobile charging points must remain switched off between 11 pm and 5 am.
The Railway Board issued fresh instructions on 26 October 2026 directing all zones to ensure the overnight shutdown is followed without exception. Staff training and surprise inspections have been ordered after a recent incident in the South Eastern Railway zone, where a power bank exploded and produced smoke while connected to a coach charging point. Onboard staff had failed to switch the points off during the restricted hours.
What Are The New Rules On Indian Railways?
Charging points are required to remain switched off from 11 pm to 5 am. This six-hour restriction means passengers cannot depend on train sockets to charge their phones, laptops or other electronic devices during this period.
The restriction applies to charging points, not phone usage. Passengers can continue using their devices, but will have to plan their charging around the shutdown. Railway officials and supervisors have also been instructed to conduct surprise inspections and ensure staff follow the rule.
The measure is intended to reduce fire risks linked to overheating devices, faulty batteries and electrical equipment. When passengers are asleep, they may not notice a device becoming unusually hot or showing signs of an electrical fault.
Does the Rule Apply to Every Coach?
It is more straightforward to enforce in AC coaches, where charging circuits can be switched off centrally. In non-AC (sleeper) coaches, implementation has historically been harder because of staffing requirements. The latest directive insists on strict compliance across the network, but passengers should not assume uniform enforcement in every class of travel.
How Can You Keep Your Phone Charged During An Overnight Train Journey?
A few simple steps can help you avoid running out of battery during the restricted hours:
Charge before boarding: Top up your phone and other essential devices before starting your journey.
Carry a charged power bank: Keep a reliable backup, but avoid charging it unattended or using damaged equipment.
Save important details offline: Keep your ticket, destination address and essential contact numbers accessible without an internet connection.
Use battery saver mode: Reduce screen brightness and close apps running in the background to conserve power.
